portend
/pɔːˈtɛnd/
Group 10Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To be a sign or warning that something momentous or calamitous is likely to happen GRE
Example in Context
The unusual seismic activity portended a larger eruption, prompting authorities to evacuate villages along the mountain's base.
Synonyms
foreshadowpredictsignal
Etymology
To signal or foretell an event, historically linked to omens.
- portendere (Latin) — to foretell
Memory Aid
🔮Sounds like “poor tend”
The fortune teller said 'POOR TEND to your future' — that’s a PORTEND of doom!
Visual Association
⚠️A dark storm cloud looming over a peaceful town, signaling impending chaos.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “portend” mean on the GRE?
portend (verb) means “To be a sign or warning that something momentous or calamitous is likely to happen”. The unusual seismic activity portended a larger eruption, prompting authorities to evacuate villages along the mountain's base.
How to remember “portend” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “portend” sounds like “poor tend”. The fortune teller said 'POOR TEND to your future' — that’s a PORTEND of doom!
What are synonyms for “portend”?
Common synonyms: foreshadow, predict, signal.