omen

[ oh-muhn ]

noun

1. anything perceived or happening that is believed to portend a good or evil event or circumstance in the future; portent.

   Synonyms: foreboding, augury

2. a prognostic.
3. prophetic significance; presage:

   a bird of ill omen.

verb (used with object)

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

omen

/ ˈəʊmən /

noun

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

verb

1. tr to portend

Other Words From

• un·omened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of omen¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of omen¹

C16: from Latin

Synonym Study

See sign.

Example Sentences

On the same question this October, only 22% of those surveyed told the Gallup organization they were satisfied — a bad omen for the party in the White House.

From Los Angeles Times

It looks now like my sweet cat was an ominous omen.

From Salon

Feels like a good omen, especially for how much MAGAdom seems to be freaking out about it.

From Slate

Their decision is a terrible omen for other pending election cases that could tip a close race to Trump.

From Slate

An AI overview said that seeing a snake when you are down can be considered a positive omen, symbolizing transformation, rebirth and renewal.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• harbinger
• indication
• portent
• premonition