portentous
adjective
Of or like a portent; ominously significant. Also means pompously solemn or self-important.
Etymology
From Latin "portentosus" (monstrous, portentous), from "portentum" (omen, monster), from "portendere" (to foretell).
Examples in Use
- 1.
"Dark clouds gathered in a portentous sky."
- 2.
"His portentous pronouncements irritated colleagues."
- 3.
"The silence felt portentous, as if something terrible would happen."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
The dual meaning (ominous/pompous) creates ambiguity. "Portentous" speech might seem to promise great things or merely be self-important hot air. Context determines which interpretation applies.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 10 letters (P, O, R, T, E, N, T, O, U, S)
Scrabble Value: 12 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "PORTENTOUS" appears in many related words.
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