Auspicios

Auspicios is the plural of auspicio. In Spanish, the term can refer to sponsorship, patronage, or endorsement, and it is also used for the signs interpreted in the ancient Roman practice of auspicia. In English, auspices denotes sponsorship or protection, and the phrase under the auspices of indicates support or oversight by a person or institution.

Historically, auspicia were a form of augural divination in ancient Rome. An augur observed omens, especially the flight and behavior of birds, to decide whether a proposed public action—such as elections, military expeditions, or religious ceremonies—should proceed. If the signs were favorable, the action could take place; if unfavorable, it was postponed or halted. The practice distinguished major (auspicia maiora) and minor (auspicia minora) auspices, depending on the source and nature of the omens.

Etymology-wise, the term derives from Latin auspicium, literally meaning “watching the birds,” from avis (bird) and specere (to look). This origin reflects the central role of bird signs in the ancient ritual.

Modern usage varies by language. In Spanish, auspicio refers to sponsorship or endorsement, and phrases like bajo los auspicios de signalize official support by a sponsor or institution. The plural auspicios can refer to multiple such sponsorships or endorsements. In English, auspices is used chiefly in formal or ceremonial contexts to denote guidance, protection, or sponsorship, as in events conducted under the auspices of a university or foundation.

See also: augury, augur, auspice.