Definition

Having a harmful or threatening effect; suggesting something bad will happen.

Example

The baleful glare of the storm clouds made everyone uneasy.

Conversation

Did you see that movie with the baleful creature in it?

Yeah, it was really creepy!

I felt like it was always lurking, ready to cause trouble.

Exactly! The baleful vibes made it so intense.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Baleful is formed from "bale" (from Old English "bælg", meaning evil or harm) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "baleful" means full of harm or threatening evil.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bale' meaning harm, and remember that 'baleful' describes something that is full of harm or threatening.

Visually Confused Words