betoken

[ bih-toh-kuhn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to give evidence of; indicate:

   to betoken one's fidelity with a vow; a kiss that betokens one's affection.

2. to be or give a token or sign of; portend:

   a thunderclap that betokens foul weather; an angry word that betokens hostility.

betoken

/ bɪˈtəʊkən /

verb

1. to indicate; signify

   black clothes betoken mourning

2. to portend; augur

Word History and Origins

Origin of betoken¹

First recorded in 1125–75, betoken is from the Middle English word bitocnen, bitacnen. See be-, token

Example Sentences

The financial burden of the war, as the full measure of it dawned upon our minds, seemed to betoken a universal bankruptcy.

From Project Gutenberg

And Kark telling Earl Hakon his dream said he thought it might betoken a short life 61 for him.

From Project Gutenberg

At my last encounter they had contented themselves with following us home, but now everything seemed to betoken mischief.

From Project Gutenberg

Certainly her airs and graces, her plumes and jewelry, seemed to betoken that her finances were in a flourishing condition.

From Project Gutenberg

Johnsen was pale and had something nervous about his manner, which seemed to betoken a wish to bring the interview to a close.

From Project Gutenberg