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portend

verb

/pɔːˈtɛnd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of portend

To serve as a warning, omen, or sign that foreshadows or predicts a future event, often with a sense of foreboding or anticipation.
"The murmurs of discontent among the citizens may portend a revolution."

Detailed meaning of portend

When something 'portends' a particular outcome or event, it implies that it suggests or indicates the likelihood of that event occurring, often based on observed patterns, signs, or circumstances. This term conveys the idea of offering insight into the future, whether it be a positive or negative development, and it is often used in contexts where the consequences of a particular action or situation are unclear or uncertain. 'Portend' underscores the notion of signs or omens playing a role in shaping our understanding of what lies ahead, emphasizing their potential to influence our decisions and preparations.

Example sentences containing portend

1. The dark clouds in the sky portend an impending storm.
2. The sudden drop in stock prices could portend an economic downturn.
3. The eerie silence in the haunted house seemed to portend something ominous.
4. The flock of birds flying in unison may portend a change in weather.
5. The ancient prophecy may portend the rise of a great leader.
6. The sudden increase in crime rates could portend a growing social problem.

History and etymology of portend

The verb 'portend' finds its origins in Latin, specifically from the word 'portendere.' This Latin term is a combination of 'por,' meaning 'forward,' and 'tendere,' meaning 'to stretch' or 'to extend.' The concept behind 'portendere' was closely associated with stretching forward or extending something as a sign or prediction. It evolved to signify predicting or foretelling the future, often through interpreting signs or omens. Thus, when we use the word 'portend' in English, we are invoking this rich history of stretching forward to foresee or anticipate future events, particularly with a sense of foreboding or anticipation, in line with its Latin origins.

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Further usage examples of portend

1. The mysterious letter received in the mail seemed to portend danger.
2. The howling winds at night can sometimes portend a forthcoming natural disaster.
3. The strange behavior of the animals in the forest could portend an earthquake.
4. The uneasy atmosphere in the meeting room portends a heated argument.
5. The flickering streetlights at night may portend a power outage.
6. The hushed whispers in the courtroom portend a significant verdict.
7. The dark, ominous figure lurking in the shadows portends trouble.
8. The eerie silence before a performance may portend a remarkable show.
9. The sudden change in temperature can portend the arrival of a cold front.
10. The suspicious activity in the neighborhood may portend a crime spree.
11. The distant rumbling of thunder portends an approaching storm.
12. The unusual celestial alignment could portend a celestial event.
13. The broken mirror is believed to portend seven years of bad luck.
14. The dark clouds on the horizon portend a coming storm.
15. His sudden silence seemed to portend bad news.
16. The drop in stock prices may portend an economic downturn.
17. The eerie silence in the haunted house portend something eerie.
18. The howling wind can sometimes portend a change in weather.
19. Her mysterious smile seemed to portend a surprise.
20. The ancient prophecy is said to portend the end of an era.
21. The old legend says that a raven's caw can portend death.
22. The sudden increase in tension portend a conflict ahead.
23. The unusual behavior of wildlife can sometimes portend natural disasters.
24. The mysterious symbols in the dream seemed to portend a significant event.