adjective
ominous
AH-mi-nuhs/ˈɑːmɪnəs/
Suggesting that something bad or threatening may happen.
Ominous clouds gather over the lake as we head home.
Etymology
Literally “full of foreboding,” ominous originally meant conveying an omen. Its meaning narrowed to threatening signs, so it now suggests coming harm rather than either good or bad fortune.
In context
looks like we're in for a real storm here look at those clouds very ominous looking towards the river but the storm is kind of coming right to us
More examples
- The engine makes an ominous rattling sound.
- An ominous silence follows the doctor's question.
- Falling sales are an ominous sign for the company.
Forms
ominous
ominously adverb — In a way that suggests approaching trouble.
ominousness noun — The quality of suggesting approaching trouble.
Similar words
- foreboding
- Emphasizes a fearful sense that something bad is coming.
- threatening
- Suggests more direct or immediate danger, not merely warning signs.
- sinister
- Often suggests hidden evil or harmful intent, not just trouble.