portentous
|por-ten-tous|
C1
🇺🇸
/pɔːrˈtɛn.təs/
🇬🇧
/pɔːˈtɛn.təs/
ominous or pompous
Etymology
Etymology Information
'portentous' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'portentosus,' where 'portentum' meant 'omen or sign.'
Historical Evolution
'portentosus' transformed into the Middle English word 'portentous,' and eventually became the modern English word 'portentous.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'relating to an omen,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'ominous' and 'pompous.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
of or like a portent; ominous, foreboding.
The dark clouds were portentous of the storm to come.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
pompous or self-important.
His portentous speech bored the audience.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41