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Baleful: meaning, definitions and examples

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baleful

 

[ ˈbeɪl.fəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

tone, expression

The word 'baleful' describes something that is ominous or threatening. It is often used to convey a sense of malice or foreboding, suggesting that something wicked or harmful is present. This term is frequently employed in literature to illustrate characters or situations that have a menacing aspect. The use of 'baleful' can invoke a strong emotional response in the reader, emphasizing the seriousness of a perilous environment.

Synonyms

malicious, menacing, noxious, sinister, spiteful

Examples of usage

  • She cast him a baleful glance.
  • The baleful storm clouds loomed overhead.
  • He spoke in a baleful tone that sent chills down my spine.

Translations

Translations of the word "baleful" in other languages:

🇵🇹 maledicto

🇮🇳 दुखदायी

🇩🇪 unheilvoll

🇮🇩 menyakitkan

🇺🇦 зловісний

🇵🇱 złowrogi

🇯🇵 不吉な

🇫🇷 maléfiques

🇪🇸 maledicto

🇹🇷 tehlikeli

🇰🇷 불길한

🇸🇦 شرير

🇨🇿 zlověstný

🇸🇰 zlovestný

🇨🇳 不祥的

🇸🇮 zlovesten

🇮🇸 ógnæf

🇰🇿 қатерлі

🇬🇪 მუქარით

🇦🇿 bədxahlıq

🇲🇽 maléfico

Etymology

The term 'baleful' comes from the Old English word 'bealwa', meaning 'evil' or 'harmful', combined with the suffix '-ful' which denotes 'full of' or 'having the qualities of'. The roots of the word trace back to Proto-Germanic '*bailaz', which signifies suffering or injury. Over time, 'baleful' evolved to encapsulate a more specific sense of malevolence or threat. Its literary usage can be found in various works, often describing characters or actions that carry a foreboding aura. This historical evolution underscores the word's connection to danger and negativity, solidifying its place in the English lexicon as a term that conveys serious warning or harm.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,391, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.