Vocabulary word Ominous - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Caution and Prudence

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Danger and Threat

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Forecasts and Predictions

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Middle School 6

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Prediction and Foresight

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Dictionary Definition of ominous

Giving a strong impression of foreboding or suggesting that something negative or threatening is likely to happen.
"The ominous sound of the bell tolling was a warning of impending danger."

Detailed Meaning of Ominous

When a situation, event, or sign is described as ominous, it conveys a sense of impending danger, misfortune, or trouble. Ominous circumstances often evoke feelings of unease, fear, or apprehension due to their association with negative outcomes. For example, dark storm clouds gathering on the horizon can create an ominous atmosphere, suggesting an impending storm. "Ominous" underscores the sense of impending doom or adversity, emphasizing the strong and unsettling feeling that something bad may be on the horizon.

Example Sentences for Ominous

1. The sky took on an ominous hue, warning of the approaching storm.
2. She ignored the ominous feeling creeping up her spine.
3. His ominous silence worried everyone in the room.
4. The forest presented an ominous sight in the moonlight.
5. His ominous words echoed in her mind long after he left.
6. The ominous clouds rolled in, darkening the once sunny day.

Origin and Etymology of Ominous

The term 'ominous' has its roots in the Latin language. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'ominosus,' which is derived from 'omen,' meaning a sign or portent. The word 'omen' itself is linked to the ancient practice of augury, where priests or seers interpreted the will of the gods by observing natural signs and phenomena. In this context, 'ominosus' originally denoted something full of omens or signs, often with a negative or foreboding connotation. Over time, as the Latin language evolved into English, 'ominous' retained its sense of foreboding and negativity, describing things that give a strong impression of impending misfortune or danger.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective ominous:

benign

promising

threatening

auspicious

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Ominous

1. The politician's ominous threats were broadcasted on national television.
2. There was an ominous growl from deep within the cave.
3. His ominous tone suggested the news was far from good.
4. The raven's ominous caw filled the silent street.
5. The town had an ominous quietness, foreshadowing disaster.
6. The ominous music in the film built tension among the viewers.
7. His smile was ominous, chilling her to the bone.
8. The dark, ominous alleyway led to unknown dangers.
9. An ominous prediction forewarned of turbulent times ahead.
10. The book's ominous title hinted at the thrilling adventure within.
11. Her dreams had been filled with ominous symbols.
12. The ominous chimes of the clock echoed through the empty house.
13. The howling of the wind gave the night an ominous quality.
14. The ominous graffiti on the wall reflected the city's unrest.