Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Bode Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฎ
Add to dictionary

bode

[boสŠd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

future events

To bode means to indicate or predict a particular outcome, often in a foreboding or ominous way. It implies that certain signs or circumstances might suggest what is to come in the future. For example, dark clouds in the sky might bode a storm. The term is commonly used when referring to events that are seen as likely to happen based on current indicators. This verb often carries a negative connotation, suggesting bad news or unfortunate events ahead.

Synonyms

augur, foretell, portend, predict.

Examples of usage

  • The dark clouds seemed to bode ill for the picnic.
  • The silence in the room boded trouble for the meeting.
  • His frown boded some bad news.
  • The unusual increase in crime rates could bode a more unsafe environment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters often refer to omens that 'bode' certain outcomes, reflecting the belief in fate.
  • The usage of 'bode' in poetry evokes a sense of foreboding or hopeful anticipation.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people often interpret signs or events to predict their future, a process connected to cognitive bias.
  • This predictive behavior can be linked to human survival instincts, helping individuals assess potential dangers.

History

  • In ancient cultures, certain natural phenomena were regarded as 'boding' omens for wars or harvests.
  • Royal courts often employed stargazers or soothsayers to interpret events that may 'bode' well or ill for leaders.

Pop Culture

  • Many horror films use the concept of 'boding' as a device to create suspense and predict doom for characters.
  • Music lyrics frequently include themes of foreboding, often hinting at emotional or relational outcomes.

Origin of 'bode'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bode' comes from the Old English 'bวฃdan', which means to announce or predict.
  • In historical texts, it was often used to denote the predictions of omens or supernatural signs.

The word 'bode' originates from the Old English term 'bลdan,' which means 'to announce' or 'to proclaim.' This etymology reflects the word's function of foreshadowing or indicating future outcomes based on present signs. Over time, the meaning evolved to emphasize the predictive nature of events, often in a context suggesting ominous or unfavorable implications. The connection to announcing or indicating continues to influence its usage in contemporary English. The term has retained its vital place in the lexicon for describing how certain situations or phenomena can offer insights into what might happen next, making it significant in both literary and everyday contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,966, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.