aug
LatinVariants
Related Roots
About This Root
From Latin augere (to increase, make grow) and augurare (to foretell by observing birds). Two semantic threads merge here: augment (to increase), augmentation, and auction (where prices increase) on one side; augur, augury (omen-reading), and inaugurate (to begin with an omen) on the other. August originally meant 'majestic, increasing in dignity'.
Associated Words
auction
A public sale to the highest bidder; to sell at auction
augment
To increase or make larger; to supplement
augmentation
The act of increasing or enlarging; an addition
augur
To be an omen of; an ancient Roman official who interpreted omens
augury
An omen or sign of future events; divination from animal behaviour
august
Majestic, dignified, and inspiring great respect
inaugural
Marking the beginning of an office or venture; an inaugural speech or ceremony
inaugurate
To formally induct into office; to officially open or begin with a ceremony