1. to be a sign or indication of something; to signify or represent
Usage: formal; literary

Examples

• The dark clouds betoken an approaching storm.
• Her nervous laughter betokens anxiety about the interview.
• The wilting flowers betoken the end of summer.
• His silence betokens disapproval of the plan.
• The increased military presence betokens rising tensions.
• The child’s tears betoken genuine distress.