noun
- signs or warnings of future events, especially bad or momentous ones
Usage: plural of portent
Examples
- The dark clouds and sudden wind were seen as portents of the coming storm.
- Ancient civilizations often interpreted eclipses as portents of disaster.
- The economist warned that rising unemployment rates were portents of recession.
- Many believed the unusual animal behavior served as portents of the earthquake.
- The oracle spoke of dire portents that would herald the kingdom’s fall.
- Superstitious sailors watched for portents before setting sail on long voyages.