Baleful

Adjective

Definition: Threatening harm or evil; menacing.

Synonyms: Harmful, Malevolent, Ominous, Sinister, Threatening

Antonyms: Benevolent, Benign, Friendly, Harmless

Examples:

The baleful look in his eyes sent chills down my spine.
The dark clouds and howling winds created a baleful atmosphere.

Mnemonics:

Think of "bale" rhyming with "male," suggesting something harmful or evil.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English 'balefulle', from Old English 'bealoful'

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since Middle English and has retained its basic meaning of "harmful" or "menacing" throughout its history.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Baleful influence"

Explanation:

Refers to a negative or harmful impact on someone or something.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'baleful' with 'beautiful' due to the similar spellings.

Explanation:

While 'baleful' and 'beautiful' may look alike, their meanings are completely opposite. 'Baleful' denotes something harmful or evil, while 'beautiful' refers to something aesthetically pleasing or attractive.