Doomsayer: meaning, definitions and examples

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doomsayer

 

[ ˈduːm.seɪ.ər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

alarmist prediction

A doomsayer is a person who predicts disaster or negative outcomes, particularly in relation to social or environmental issues. This individual often expresses a pessimistic view about the future, often emphasizing imminent danger or catastrophe. The term is frequently used in discussions about politics, climate change, and societal trends.

Synonyms

alarmist, gloom-monger, pessimist, prophet of doom

Examples of usage

  • The doomsayer warned about the implications of climate change.
  • Politicians often label their opponents as doomsayers when discussing economic issues.
  • Many doomsayers predicted the collapse of the financial system in 2008.
  • Her doomsayer attitude made it hard for her to enjoy positive news.

Translations

Translations of the word "doomsayer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 profeta da desgraça

🇮🇳 प्रलय भविष्यवक्ता

🇩🇪 Weltuntergangsprophet

🇮🇩 peramal kiamat

🇺🇦 пророк лиха

🇵🇱 prorok zagłady

🇯🇵 黙示録の預言者

🇫🇷 prophète de malheur

🇪🇸 profeta del apocalipsis

🇹🇷 felaket müjdecisi

🇰🇷 종말 예언자

🇸🇦 نبي الكارثة

🇨🇿 prorok zkázy

🇸🇰 prorok skazy

🇨🇳 末日先知

🇸🇮 prorok propadanja

🇮🇸 skömmusagnarmaður

🇰🇿 апокалипсис болжамшысы

🇬🇪 ბედისწერის წინასწარმეტყველი

🇦🇿 fəlakət peyğəmbəri

🇲🇽 profeta del apocalipsis

Word origin

The term 'doomsayer' originated in the English language by combining 'doom,' which means fate or destiny often accompanied by destruction, and 'sayer,' someone who speaks or pronounces something. 'Doom' itself can be traced back to the Old English word 'dūm,' meaning 'judgment or fate.' The word saw a rise in popularity during the 19th century, particularly as concerns about social and religious apocalypses became common. Today, it's often used in a more secular context to describe those who predict catastrophic events in various aspects of life, including economics, environment, politics, and technology. The connotation is typically negative, suggesting that the individual's dire predictions are exaggerated or unfounded.