Omen
easyNeutral toneOH-mun
noun
Definition
An event regarded as a sign of future good or evil
Memory hook
OH MEN! — a dramatic sign of what's to come, good or bad.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Many saw the eclipse as an omen of disaster.”
“The early success was seen as a good omen.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Many saw the eclipse as an ______ of disaster.”
Show answer
omen
Categories
GRE Tip
Omen is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "portent" or "harbinger" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "aftermath".
Related GRE Words
foretoken
A sign of something to come; an omen
portent
A sign or warning that something, especially something momentous or calamitous, is likely to happen
portend
To be a sign or warning that something is likely to happen
augur
To foretell or predict, especially from signs or omens; a prophet or soothsayer
prognosticate
To foretell or prophesy future events
presage
To be a sign or warning of; an omen or portent
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