Dowsing, also known as divining, is a technique that some people use to search for underground water sources, minerals, or other hidden objects. It typically involves holding a forked stick, a pair of rods, or a pendulum, and walking over the area being surveyed. Proponents believe that these tools will react to the presence of the desired object, often by moving, bending, or rotating. Skeptics attribute dowsing's perceived success to chance, confirmation bias, or psychological suggestion, as there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. Historically, dowsing has been employed for a variety of purposes, including locating lost items, archaeological sites, and even predicting the future. However, its reliability remains a subject of considerable debate. It is not an established scientific method.
Dowsing meaning with examples
- The farmer, unable to find a water source, decided to try dowsing. He carefully walked across the field, holding a forked willow branch. To his surprise (or perhaps due to expectation), the branch dipped dramatically in one spot. Following the supposed indication, he began drilling, hoping to finally find water. The technique has been used for generations.
- During the construction project, the project manager hired a dowser to locate any underground utility lines before excavation began. The dowser used a pair of metal rods, which crossed when they detected what he believed was a buried pipe. The workers proceeded with caution, based on the dowser's indications. This helped avoid potential damage.
- A treasure hunter, seeking lost gold, employed dowsing rods to search a suspected shipwreck location. Holding the rods loosely, he walked along the beach, hoping for a reaction. When he crossed a specific area, the rods moved in a cross. He then hired a dive team. The dive team's work was based on the dowser's input.
- In a historical reenactment, the historical society demonstrated the dowsing technique. A member held a Y-shaped stick and walked over the area. When he crossed the area which had a buried cache of items, the stick gave a noticeable movement. The audience observed this with curiosity. They were told of the history of dowsing.
- Despite the skepticism surrounding the technique, the dowser was asked to use a pendulum over a map, looking for a missing person. Concentrating intently, the pendulum began to swing in a circular motion over a specific location. The authorities then searched in the area indicated and found the missing person. The family was grateful.
Dowsing Synonyms
divining pendulum dowsing radiesthesia rod dowsing water witchingDowsing Antonyms
controlled experiment empirical research objective analysis proven method scientific investigationDowsing Crossword Answers
5 Letters
DOWSE
11 Letters
RHABDOMANCY