Definitions

portend

[pawr-tend, pohr-] / pɔrˈtɛnd, poʊr- /

VERB

foreshadow, indicate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

augur bespeak foretell predict presage

STRONG

adumbrate betoken bode call forebode forecast foreshow forewarn harbinger herald hint omen prognosticate promise prophesy read threaten

WEAK

be in the cards crystal-ball foretoken have a hunch point to premonish see coming warn of

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Signs pointed to another U.S. military buildup in the region this week that could portend a fresh round of fighting.

From Los Angeles Times • May 2, 2026

So what does this portend for the future of American politics?

From Salon • Mar. 25, 2026

Does this Super Bowl’s record-breaking A.I. ad splurge also portend a coming pop?

From Slate • Feb. 8, 2026

Yet the reticence from car buyers toward the end of last year portend a potentially volatile year marked by uncertainty around tariffs and the broader economy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 5, 2026

“Tell me what event might portend success in love?”

From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black

Vocabulary lists containing portend

Grade 11, List 2

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"What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" by Frederick Douglass

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Chains

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!