How Do You Spell PORTENTOUSLY?

Pronunciation: [pɔːtˈɛntəsli] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "portentously" can be a bit tricky. The first syllable is pronounced "pawr-tuhnt" with the "or" sound (ɔr) like in "more" and the "t" sound (t) held longer. The second syllable is spelled "uh" (ə) for the schwa sound and "n" (n) for the consonant sound. The third syllable is pronounced "tuhs-lee" with the "s" sound (s) held longer and the "lee" (li) like in "me". The final syllable is spelled "lee" (li) for the same sound as in the previous syllable.

PORTENTOUSLY Meaning and Definition

1. Portentously is an adverb derived from the word "portentous," which refers to something that is foreboding or ominous, usually indicating an important or disastrous event. The word is often used to describe situations, behavior, or speech that carries a sense of impending danger or significance.

   When used as an adverb, portentously describes an action, manner, or speech that is done in a way that suggests a significant or grave outcome. It conveys a feeling of importance, often accompanied by a sense of anxiety or apprehension.

   Portentously may also convey a sense of grandiosity or pompousness, especially when referring to someone's demeanor or speech. It can suggest that the person is trying to make themselves appear larger or more significant than they actually are, often to impress or intimidate others.

   In literature or storytelling, portentously can be used to create tension or suspense, as it hints at a future event that may have profound consequences. This word can also be employed to describe an atmosphere or setting that is laden with significance or foreboding, emphasizing a sense of impending doom or major change.

   Overall, portentously is an adverb that describes actions, behavior, or speech that is imbued with a sense of impending danger, significance, or grandiosity.

Common Misspellings for PORTENTOUSLY

• oortentously
• lortentously
• -ortentously
• 0ortentously
• pirtentously
• portentusly
• forteutously
• portensously
• portenciously
• portonsously

Etymology of PORTENTOUSLY

The word "portentously" is derived from the base word "portentous".

The etymology of "portentous" can be traced back to the Latin word "portentosus". This is a derivative of the noun "portentum", meaning "omen" or "sign". In Latin, the suffix "-osus" is used to form adjectives, which implies that something is characterized by or possessing a particular quality.

Therefore, "portentous" refers to something that is marked by being a sign or an omen, often carrying a significant or foreboding connotation. "Portentously", an adverb form of "portentous", describes actions or statements done in a manner that suggests or foreshadows a significant event or ominous future outcome.

Similar spelling words for PORTENTOUSLY

• portentous,
• portmanteau.