Baleful: meaning, definitions and examples
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baleful
[ ˈbeɪl.fəl ]
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.
- ...
- 25388 brushwood
- 25389 atheistic
- 25390 inaccurately
- 25391 baleful
- 25392 disowned
- 25393 blistered
- 25394 extraterrestrial
- ...