View synonyms for omen

omen

[ oh-muhn ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

anything perceived or happening that is believed to portend a good or evil event or circumstance in the future; portent.
Synonyms: foreboding, augury
a prognostic.
prophetic significance; presage:
a bird of ill omen.

verb (used with object)

to be an omen of; portend.
to divine, as if from omens.

omen

/ ˈəʊmən /

noun

a phenomenon or occurrence regarded as a sign of future happiness or disaster
prophetic significance

verb

tr to portend

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Other Word Forms

un·omened adjective

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Word History and Origins

Origin of omen¹

First recorded in 1575–85, omen is from the Latin word ōmen

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Word History and Origins

Origin of omen¹

C16: from Latin

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Synonym Study

See sign.

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Lying third in LIV's individual standings suggests it is, while he hopes not practising at Augusta National before his ninth appearance could turn out to be a lucky omen.

From BBC

It wasn’t a good omen, but I tried to keep an open mind.

From Los Angeles Times

"It's quite the omen for how our civilisation is changing," he added.

From BBC

In retrospect, the spot was so safe that it was the perfect omen for how overwhelmingly bland this year’s Super Bowl turned out.

From Salon

The last time the British & Irish Lion played was the last time Wales won - they will hoping his return is an omen.

From BBC