aug
Latinincrease, make grow; foretell by omen
About This Root
From Latin augere 'to increase, make grow,' source of augment and auction (a sale where prices grow). A ritual branch gave augur 'the priest who read omens to secure the gods' increase/favor' and inaugurate 'to begin after a favorable omen.' august = '(blessed with) growing dignity,' and the month August honors Emperor Augustus.
Associated Words · 8
auction
A public sale to the highest bidder; to sell at auction
inaugural
Marking the beginning of an office or venture; an inaugural speech or ceremony
augment
To increase or make larger; to supplement
inaugurate
To formally induct into office; to officially open or begin with a ceremony
august
Majestic, dignified, and inspiring great respect
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