Definition

Having a significant or ominous quality that suggests something important or foreboding is about to happen.

Example

The dark clouds in the sky had a portentous look, making everyone worry about the storm.

Conversation

Did you see that portentous cloud formation earlier?

Yeah, it looked like something out of a movie!

I wonder if it means a storm is coming soon.

Maybe! It definitely had an eerie vibe to it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Portentous → It is formed from "portent" (from Latin "portentum", meaning a sign or omen) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of). The word "portentous" means full of significance or foreboding, often relating to an omen or warning.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'sign' or 'omen' ('portent') that is 'full of' ('-ous') meaning — that's why portentous describes something that carries great significance or foreboding.

Visually Confused Words