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Ominously: meaning, definitions and examples

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ominously

 

[ ˈɒmɪnəsli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

in a threatening or foreboding manner

Characterized by a sense of impending danger or doom; giving the impression that something bad is about to happen. The word 'ominously' is often used to describe an atmosphere or tone that suggests a negative outcome. It can also convey a feeling of unease or discomfort.

Synonyms

foreboding, portentously, sinister, threatening

Examples of usage

  • The dark clouds gathered ominously in the sky.
  • He spoke ominously about the future of the company.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a way that suggests a bad omen

In a manner that foreshadows or predicts misfortune or disaster. When something happens ominously, it is viewed as a sign of trouble or an indication of an undesirable outcome. This usage is often associated with superstition or a sense of foreboding.

Synonyms

forebodingly, inauspiciously, premonitively, unpropitiously

Examples of usage

  • The howling of the wolves sounded ominously in the distance.
  • The clock striking midnight ominously signaled the start of the ritual.

Translations

Translations of the word "ominously" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ominosamente

🇮🇳 अशुभ ढंग से

🇩🇪 unheilvoll

🇮🇩 dengan mengancam

🇺🇦 зловісно

🇵🇱 złowieszczo

🇯🇵 不吉に

🇫🇷 de manière inquiétante

🇪🇸 de manera ominosa

🇹🇷 uğursuzca

🇰🇷 불길하게

🇸🇦 بشكل ينذر بالسوء

🇨🇿 zlověstně

🇸🇰 zlovestne

🇨🇳 不祥地

🇸🇮 zlovešče

🇮🇸 ógnvekjandi

🇰🇿 қауіпті түрде

🇬🇪 საშიშად

🇦🇿 qorxulu şəkildə

🇲🇽 de manera ominosa

Etymology

The word 'ominously' originates from the Latin word 'ominosus,' meaning full of foreboding. It entered the English language in the late 16th century, at a time when superstitions and beliefs in omens were prevalent. The concept of ominous signs and portents has long been a part of human history, with people interpreting various occurrences as warnings of impending doom. Over time, 'ominously' has come to symbolize a sense of impending danger or dark premonition.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,439, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.