Portent
hardNegative tonePOR-tent
noun
Definition
A sign or warning that something, especially something momentous or calamitous, is likely to happen
Memory hook
PORT-ENT: something entering through the PORT (gate) to warn you - a sign of doom approaching.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The sudden resignation was seen as a portent of bigger changes to come.”
“Ancient peoples interpreted eclipses as portents of disaster.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The sudden resignation was seen as a ______ of bigger changes to come.”
Show answer
portent
Categories
GRE Tip
Portent is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "omen" 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
omen
An event regarded as a sign of future good or evil
augur
To foretell or predict, especially from signs or omens; a prophet or soothsayer
portend
To be a sign or warning that something is likely to happen
prognosticate
To foretell or prophesy future events
precursor
A person or thing that comes before another of the same kind; a forerunner
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