portend
verb (used with object)
to indicate in advance; to foreshadow or presage, as an omen does.
portending
-
present participleof portend.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Service companies reduced employment for the fifth time in the past six months, perhaps portending a weak August employment report on Friday.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 3, 2026
It’s a dark and propulsive journey through decades of electronic dance music, best described by its own opening words portending “ultra terrorific fantasy.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 2, 2026
Before they knew it, the sky turned dark, portending a storm.
From BBC ● May 29, 2025
Cougars are our canaries in the coal mine, portending consequences of lost connectivity for all Southwest Washington.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 1, 2023
So when two ladies go out together, the clouds portending rain, let each take an umbrella for herself, and then much injury to bonnets and shawls may be avoided.
From The Ladies' Guide to True Politeness and Perfect Manners or, Miss Leslie's Behaviour Book by Eliza Leslie
