Vocabulary in context
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Ominous
An adjective describing something that indicates danger or disaster is about to happen.
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Imagine This
When the couple relaxing on the sunny beach heard that a thunderstorm was coming their way, they knew that it would be a minus to their honeymoon because they had fewer days of staying.
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Sounds Like
OM-uh-nuhs
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Looks Like
Looks like 'omen' + suffix -ous; the word visually resembles the root 'omen' with -ous.
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Remember This
Ominous describes signs, atmospheres, or feelings that warn of danger. It does not guarantee a disaster, but it strongly suggests one.
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Other Forms
Omennoun
Ominouslyadverb
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Connect With
foreboding, threatening, sinister, portentous
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Note
Use ominous to describe signs, atmospheres, or warnings that feel threatening. It is often followed by phrases like 'feeling,' 'sign,' or 'clouds' (e.g., 'an ominous cloud'), and contrasts with neutral or positive conditions.
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Study Deeper
Examples
- Dark clouds gathering over the horizon gave an ominous look to the afternoon.
- The ominous warning suggested serious consequences if they ignored it.
Synonyms
forebodingthreateningsinisterportentousgrim
Antonyms
harmlessbenignauspicious
Etymology
From Latin ominosus meaning 'full of omens', from omen (sign) + suffix -osus; ultimately from omen 'sign' in Latin.
Mnemonic
OMEN + OUS = full of omens. Remember that ominous describes signs that foretell danger.
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Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.
Adept
adjectiveHaving or showing a high level of skill or proficiency; very capable.
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