Portentous
Adjective
Definition: Giving a sign or warning that something momentous or calamitous is likely to happen.
Synonyms: Ominous, Foreboding, Threatening, Significant
Antonyms: Unimportant, Insignificant, Trivial
- The dark clouds and the eerie silence were portentous of an impending storm.
- The sudden drop in the stock market was a portentous sign of an economic recession.
- Think of "portent" as a warning sign that something significant is about to happen.
- Picture a person holding a large sign saying "portentous" to signify that it is of great importance.
Etymology:
The word "portentous" comes from the Latin word "portentosus," which is derived from the noun "portentum" meaning "omen" or "sign."
Historical Usage:The term has been used since the 15th century to describe something that indicates a significant event or warns of an impending disaster.
Related Idioms:
"A portentous moment"
Explanation:Refers to a moment or situation that holds great significance or foreshadows an important event.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "portentous" with "pretentious."
Explanation:While the two words sound similar, they have different meanings. "Portentous" implies importance or significance, while "pretentious" suggests an exaggerated or affected behavior or manner.