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

The omens, in terms of character compatibility, don’t look instantly great.

From BBC

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

When a bolt of lightning struck one of the ornamental stone eagles atop the stadium, Gibson reportedly said, “It may have been an omen that times were changing.”

From Salon

Related Words

• harbinger
• indication
• portent
• premonition