Definition

In a way that suggests something important or serious is going to happen, often with a sense of warning or foreboding.

Example

The sky darkened portentously, signaling an approaching storm.

Conversation

Did you notice how he spoke portentously during the meeting?

Yeah, it was like he was trying to make everything sound so serious.

Exactly! It felt a bit over the top, don’t you think?

Definitely, sometimes it’s better to just be straightforward.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Portentously → It is formed from "portent" (from Latin "portentum", meaning a sign or omen) and the suffix "-ously" (meaning in a manner characterized by). The word "portentously" means in a manner that is ominous or foreboding, as if indicating something significant or threatening is about to happen.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'sign' or 'omen' ('portent') that is presented in a way that is 'characteristic' ('-ously') of something serious or foreboding.

Visually Confused Words