Ominous – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Ominous (adjective)

Ominous is an adjective that describes something that signals or suggests a threat, danger, or bad event in the future. It often implies a sense of forewarning or an eerie feeling that something negative may happen.

Examples

• The ominous clouds hinted at an approaching storm.
• His ominous silence made everyone uncomfortable.
• The ominous music in the background created tension.
• An ominous shadow loomed over the deserted house.
• The omen was ominous, foretelling doom ahead.
• Her ominous warning was ignored by the others.
• The dark, ominous sky signalled an impending disaster.
• There was an ominous sense of dread in the air.

Meaning

• Threatening
• Foreboding
• Eerie
• Dark
• Unsettling
• Sinister
• Creepy
• Warning

Pronunciation

• UK: /ˈɒmɪnəs/ (OM-i-nuhs)
• US: /ˈɑːmɪnəs/ (AH-mih-nuhs)

Synonyms

• Threatening
• Sinister
• Foreboding
• Dark
• Unsettling
• Menacing
• Dangerous
• Creepy
• Alarmist
• Dire
• Spooky
• Gloomy

Usage Tips for Ominous

• Use to describe something that hints at a future misfortune.
• It is often associated with an eerie or unsettling atmosphere.
• Avoid using it for situations that don’t imply a threat.
• Ideal for situations with a foreboding or tense feeling.
• Best used in the context of bad or dangerous events.

Origin

Ominous (1500s):

It is derived from the Latin word ominous, meaning an omen or sign, indicating a prediction of future events.

Similar Words to Ominous

• Sinister
• Menacing
• Foreboding
• Threatening
• Creepy
• Unsettling
• Dark
• Spooky
• Alarmist
• Gloomy

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of ominous in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, ominous means “خوفناک” or “بُرا پیش آنے والا.”

Q: How do we use ominous in a sentence?

Ans: The ominous sound of distant thunder made everyone uneasy.

Q: What’s the difference between ominous and sinister?

Ans: Ominous suggests a forewarning of something bad, while sinister emphasizes evil or harmful intent.

Related Words: