a·le·a·to·ry / adj. Dependent on chance, luck, or an uncertain outcome: an aleatory contract between an oil prospector and a landowner. Of or characterized by gambling: aleatory contests. Also a·le·a·to·ric. Music. Using or consisting of sounds to be chosen by the performer or left to chance; indeterminate: An object placed inside the piano added an aleatory element to the piece. or·a·cle / n. a. A shrine consecrated to the worship and consultation of a prophetic deity, as that of Apollo at Delphi. b. A person, such as a priestess, through whom a deity is held to respond when consulted. c. The response given through such a medium, often in the form of an enigmatic statement or allegory. a. A person considered to be a source of wise counsel or prophetic opinions. b. An authoritative or wise statement or prediction. Theology. A command or revelation from God. In the Old Testament, the sanctuary of the Temple.