Definition

A feeling or sense that something is going to happen, often something bad or unpleasant.

Example

She had a presentiment that something was wrong before she received the news.

Conversation

I had a strange feeling when I woke up this morning.

Really? What kind of feeling?

It was like a presentiment that something unusual was going to happen today.

That's interesting! I wonder if it means anything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Presentiment → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "sentire" (meaning to feel). The word refers to a feeling or intuition about something that is going to happen before it occurs.

Memory Tip

Think of having a feeling ('sentire') about something that will happen 'before' ('pre-') it actually does — that's what presentiment means.

Visually Confused Words