portent

[pawr-tent, pohr-]

noun

1. an indication or omen of something about to happen, especially something momentous.

   Synonyms: warning, augury

2. threatening or disquieting significance.

   an occurrence of dire portent.

   Synonyms: import

3. a prodigy or marvel.

portent

/ ˈpɔːtɛnt /

noun

1. a sign or indication of a future event, esp a momentous or calamitous one; omen

2. momentous or ominous significance

   a cry of dire portent

3. a miraculous occurrence; marvel

Word History and Origins

Origin of portent¹

First recorded in 1555–65; from Latin portentum “sign, token,” noun use of neuter of portentus, past participle of portendere “to signify, presage, portend”; portend

Word History and Origins

Origin of portent¹

C16: from Latin portentum sign, omen, from portendere to _portend

Synonym Study

See sign.

Example Sentences

In particular those involved with betting, and there was an early portent of what was to come in 1996.

From BBC

Australia appeared satisfied with their morning's work - but in a curious way it had maybe given South Africa a psychological lift and was portent of what was to come in the remainder of the day.

From BBC

Of course, the portents of doom were written all over it for Aberdeen.

From BBC

Easterby will hope Hansen's troubles are not a portent for what lies ahead on Sunday with Ireland aiming to overcome a significant hurdle in their quest for a third successive title.

From BBC

A silvery 10-foot-long creature, the oarfish has fueled fisherman’s tales of sea serpents — and in some cultures has been a portent of natural disasters.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• harbinger 
• omen 
• premonition