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sinister

|sin/is/ter|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈsɪnɪstər/

🇬🇧

/ˈsɪnɪstə/

evil or threatening

Etymology
Etymology Information

'sinister' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sinister,' where it meant 'left' or 'unlucky.'

Historical Evolution

'sinister' changed from the Latin word 'sinister' and eventually became the modern English word 'sinister.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'left' or 'unlucky,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'evil or harmful.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

giving the impression that something harmful or evil is happening or will happen.

The dark clouds gave the sky a sinister appearance.

Synonyms

menacingthreateningominous

Antonyms

innocuousharmless

Adjective 2

of, on, or toward the left-hand side (in heraldry, the side of a shield that is to the right of the person bearing it).

The coat of arms featured a sinister bend.

Synonyms

left

Antonyms

dexter

Examples

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Idioms

sinister motive

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40