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.

That doesn’t portend an imminent crash, but it does raise the question how long a rally supported by just a handful of stocks can really last.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

It’s spring primary season, though the GOP’s April showers portend May and June squalls.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

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

From Salon • Mar. 25, 2026

This does not portend an all-around divestment from America.

From Slate • Mar. 20, 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

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

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

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

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!