ominous

om-i-nous · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen; threatening.

  2. 2.

    Indicating or suggesting future misfortune; portending evil.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    ominous clouds — dark clouds that suggest a storm is coming
  • •
    ominous silence — a quiet atmosphere that feels threatening or uncomfortable
  • •
    ominous warning — a warning that suggests serious danger ahead

Related words

Antonyms: auspicious, promising, reassuring
See also: foreboding, omen, sinister, threatening
Synonyms: foreboding, menacing, sinister, threatening

Etymology

From Latin ominosus ("full of foreboding"), from omen ("sign, token"). Related to the English word "omen." The word entered English in the late 16th century.