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Portending Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฎ
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portending

[pษ”หrหˆtษ›ndษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

future events

The term 'portending' refers to the act of indicating or warning of a future event, especially something ominous or significant. It is often associated with prophetic or foreboding signs that suggest something important is about to happen.

Synonyms

foreshadowing, foretelling, indicating.

Examples of usage

  • The dark clouds were portending a storm.
  • The sudden drop in temperature was portending a harsh winter.
  • His ominous words were portending disaster.
  • The unusual behavior of the animals was portending an earthquake.

Translations

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

Origin of 'portending'

The word 'portending' derives from the Latin 'portendere', which means 'to stretch forth, foretell'. It is composed of the prefix 'por-' meaning 'forward' and 'tendere', which means 'to stretch'. The term emerged in English in the early 17th century, primarily associated with predictions or warnings about future events, especially those with a negative connotation. It underscores the notion of something being foreseen or signaled before it occurs, often used in literature and conversation to describe situations that hint at ominous outcomes or significant changes on the horizon.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,715, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.