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Portend: meaning, definitions and examples

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portend

 

[ pɔːˈtɛnd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

in a mystical context

Portend means to be a sign or warning that something is likely to happen in the future. It is often used in a mystical or prophetic sense to indicate an omen or foreshadowing of events.

Synonyms

foreshadow, foretell, predict

Examples of usage

  • The dark clouds portend a storm approaching.
  • The sudden drop in temperature could portend a harsh winter ahead.
Context #2 | Verb

in a negative context

Portend can also be used in a negative context to suggest something bad or ominous is about to happen.

Synonyms

forebode, omen, presage

Examples of usage

  • The eerie silence in the village portends trouble.
  • The strange behavior of the animals portends an earthquake.

Translations

Translations of the word "portend" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pressagiar

🇮🇳 संकेत देना

🇩🇪 ankündigen

🇮🇩 menandakan

🇺🇦 передбачати

🇵🇱 zwiastować

🇯🇵 予示する

🇫🇷 présager

🇪🇸 presagiar

🇹🇷 işaret etmek

🇰🇷 예고하다

🇸🇦 ينذر

🇨🇿 předpovídat

🇸🇰 predpovedať

🇨🇳 预示

🇸🇮 napovedovati

🇮🇸 forspá

🇰🇿 болжам жасау

🇬🇪 წინასწარმეტყველება

🇦🇿 öncə görmək

🇲🇽 presagiar

Word origin

The word 'portend' originated from the Latin word 'portendere', which means 'to foretell or predict'. This term has been in use since the 15th century and has retained its mystical connotations throughout history. The concept of portents and omens has been prevalent in various cultures and belief systems, often associated with superstition and divination.

See also: airport, comport, deport, export, passport, port, portability, portable, portal, portent, porter, porters, portion, portly, portrait, viewport.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,835, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.