ominously
UK: ˈɒm.ɪ.nəs.li | US: ˈɑː.mə.nəs.li
adv. in a way that suggests something bad will happen
adv. in a threatening or foreboding manner
The word "ominously" derives from the Latin root omen (meaning "a sign or portent"), combined with the suffix -ous (forming adjectives) and the adverbial suffix -ly. The original Latin omen often carried a supernatural connotation, implying a divine warning. Over time, "ominous" evolved in English to describe anything that hints at impending danger or misfortune. The addition of -ly transforms it into an adverb, emphasizing the manner in which such foreboding is conveyed.
The sky darkened ominously before the storm.
She laughed ominously, making everyone uneasy.
The door creaked ominously in the silent house.
His words were spoken ominously, hinting at trouble ahead.
The dog growled ominously at the stranger.