omen
UK: ˈəʊmən | US: ˈoʊmən
n. an event or phenomenon believed to foretell the future, often signifying good or evil
n. a prophetic sign or warning
The word "omen" comes directly from Latin ōmen, meaning "a sign or forewarning." Unlike many English words, it retains its original form without prefixes or suffixes. In ancient Roman culture, omens were central to divination practices, often observed through natural phenomena like bird flights or thunder. The word's simplicity reflects its unchanging role across centuries as a term for supernatural portents.
The sudden storm was seen as an omen of misfortune.
She interpreted the rainbow as a good omen for her journey.
Ancient priests studied animal entrails for omens.
A black cat crossing your path is considered a bad omen in some cultures.
The eclipse was regarded as a divine omen by the tribe.