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omen

noun

/ˈəʊmən/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of omen

A sign or indication, usually believed to be of a prophetic nature, that is thought to predict future events.
"The travelers saw the rainbow as an omen of good luck on their journey."

Detailed meaning of omen

Omen can be positive or negative, depending on the context and the culture in which it is interpreted. It is often associated with the supernatural or spiritual realm, and is considered to be a symbol or message from a higher power. Omen can take many forms, including natural phenomena such as storms or eclipses, as well as more subjective events like dreams or visions. People throughout history have placed great importance on omens, often interpreting them as a warning or a guide to their actions.

Example sentences containing omen

1. The villagers saw the eclipse as an omen of impending doom.
2. The farmer took the early frost as an omen of a bad harvest.
3. The dream was interpreted as an omen of good fortune.
4. The soldier saw the shooting star as an omen of victory in battle.
5. The hatching of the rare bird was seen as an omen of prosperity.
6. The villagers took the strange noises in the forest as an omen of danger.

History and etymology of omen

The noun 'omen' has an ancient and fascinating etymology. It originates from the Latin word 'omen,' which means 'a sign or omen.' The Latin term itself is believed to have derived from the older Proto-Indo-European root 'osmen,' which signifies 'divine will' or 'divine command.' In ancient Roman culture, omens were closely tied to religious beliefs and superstitions, with various signs and events being interpreted as messages from the gods regarding future events. This etymology underscores the deep historical connection between the concept of omens and the idea of divine or prophetic communication. It reflects the belief that certain signs and indications could reveal insights into the future, making 'omen' a word steeped in ancient mysticism and religious significance.

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Further usage examples of omen

1. The fisherman saw the school of fish jumping as an omen of a good catch.
2. The unexpected arrival of the monarch was seen as an omen of an important event.
3. The sudden storm was taken as an omen of the gods' anger
4. The sighting of the comet was seen as an omen of impending change.
5. The sudden appearance of the black cat was considered an omen of bad luck.
6. The sudden storm was seen as an ominous omen of trouble ahead.
7. Spotting a shooting star is considered an extraordinary and lucky omen.
8. The black cat crossing their path was widely regarded as a bad omen in their superstitious community.
9. The appearance of a rainbow after the rain is a universally recognized symbol of hope and positivity.
10. Discovering a four-leaf clover is considered an incredibly fortunate omen, promising good luck.
11. The eerie howling of wolves at night was taken as a foreboding omen by the villagers.
12. Witnessing a double rainbow is a rare and awe-inspiring omen, believed to bring blessings.
13. In some ancient cultures, a solar eclipse was seen as a potent omen, often linked to significant events.
14. The cryptic prophecy was believed to hold the key to understanding future omens and events.
15. A ringing phone late at night can sometimes be interpreted as an unsettling omen of bad news.
16. The distant hoot of an owl was traditionally considered an omen of wisdom and mystical insight.
17. Finding a penny heads up on the ground is commonly viewed as a favorable omen.
18. Observing a shooting star streak across the sky is seen as an auspicious omen for dreams coming true.
19. In many cultures, breaking a mirror is believed to bring seven years of bad luck, making it a feared omen.
20. Sailors often rely on the color of the sky at dawn as a weather omen to guide their day's journey.
21. The persistent cawing of a raven was thought to be an omen of impending doom in ancient folklore.
22. A white dove is a symbol of peace and harmony, often seen as a positive omen in many societies.
23. The sudden calmness of the sea sent shivers down the spines of seasoned sailors, a clear omen of an impending storm.
24. The haunting hoot of an owl deep in the forest was interpreted as an omen by those who believed in its mystical significance.
25. A ladybug landing gently on one's hand is considered a symbol of good luck, a charming and heartening omen.