Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //mɪˈneɪtəri//
KK: /mɪˈneɪtəri/
Definition
Describing something that has a threatening or menacing quality.
Example
The minatory tone of his voice made everyone feel uneasy.
Conversation

Did you see that movie with the minatory character?

Yeah, it really added a creepy vibe to the story!

I thought the whole atmosphere was pretty minatory as well.

Definitely! It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
menacing
threatening
ominous
Antonyms
inviting
reassuring
friendly
Root Explanation
Minatory → It is formed from "minari" (meaning to threaten) and the suffix "-ory" (meaning relating to or characterized by). The word "minatory" describes something that is characterized by a threat or warning.
Memory Tip
Think of 'threatening' ('minari') to remember that 'minatory' means something that relates to a threat.
Visually Confused Words
miniator
terminatory
fulminatory
examinatory
eliminatory
criminatory
comminatory
combinatory