Portent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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portent
[ˈpɔː.tənt ]
Definitions
ominous sign
A portent is a sign or warning that something, especially something momentous or calamitous, is likely to happen. It is often seen as a forewarning of a future event, usually negative or disastrous.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| portent |
Used in situations where something is seen as a warning or indication of a future event, often negative or foreboding.
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| omen |
This word can refer to signs that predict future events and can be either good or bad, typically in a more mystical or superstitious context.
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| sign |
This is a general term used to describe any indication or evidence of something that may or is about to happen. It is neutral and widely applicable.
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| harbinger |
Often used to describe something that signals or announces the approach of another event, usually in a neutral or slightly positive context.
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Examples of usage
- The dark clouds gathering on the horizon were seen as a portent of the coming storm.
- The sudden appearance of a black cat crossing your path is considered a portent of bad luck.
premonition
A portent can also refer to a feeling or intuition that something is about to happen, usually something negative. It is a sense of foreboding or apprehension about the future.
Synonyms
foreboding, forewarning, presentiment.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| portent |
Portent is used to describe something that is seen as a sign or warning that something momentous or calamitous is likely to happen. It has a strong association with significant future events, often negative.
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| foreboding |
Foreboding is a feeling that something bad will happen. It is usually negative and is used to describe an emotional state rather than a specific sign.
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| presentiment |
Presentiment is a feeling or sense that something is going to happen, especially something bad. It is usually internal and more about intuition.
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| forewarning |
Forewarning refers to giving someone advance notice of danger or problems. It is more neutral and practical compared to words like 'portent' and 'foreboding'.
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Examples of usage
- She had a portent that something terrible was going to happen, but she couldn't explain why.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Many classic authors, like Shakespeare, utilized portents to foreshadow events, creating an atmosphere of suspense.
- In literature, portents often appear as ominous signs, such as dark clouds or unusual animal behavior, indicating trouble ahead.
- An example can be found in Edgar Allan Poe's works, where foreboding signs often set the tone for the unfolding tragedy.
Science
- Certain natural events, like solar eclipses or unusual weather patterns, have historically been seen as portents by different cultures.
- In modern contexts, scientists may refer to unexpected phenomena in nature as portents of environmental changes or disasters.
- Researchers study historical 'portents' in nature to understand better how past civilizations reacted to significant changes.
Pop Culture
- Portents frequently appear in films and TV shows as plot devices that hint at future events, generating suspense and intrigue.
- Movies such as 'The Sixth Sense' use portentous signs to lead viewers to the twist ending, creating a deeper understanding of past events.
- Many fantasy genres focus on portents as integral parts of the storyline, framing the heroes' journeys alongside mysterious warnings.
Psychology
- The concept of portents can tie into superstition, where individuals interpret signs as a way to predict outcomes in their lives.
- Cognitive biases may lead people to attach significance to events that fit the idea of a portent, reinforcing beliefs about fate.
- Understanding how people interpret portents can help psychologists explore anxiety and how uncertainty affects decision-making.
Origin of 'portent'
Main points about word origin
- Originates from the Latin word 'portentum,' meaning 'a forewarning' or 'an omen.'
- It combines 'portendere,' which means 'to indicate in advance,' making its history tied to predictions.
- The term has been used in English since the early 14th century, emphasizing its longstanding presence in the language.
The word 'portent' originated from the Latin word 'portentum', meaning 'omen' or 'sign'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe signs or warnings of future events. The concept of portents has been present in various cultures and belief systems throughout history, often associated with superstitions and the supernatural.
See also: airport, comport, deport, export, passport, port, portability, portable, portal, portend, porter, porters, portion, portly, portrait, viewport.