How to Pronounce "portentous"
word
pɔɹˈtɛntəs
por-TEN-tuhs
pɔːtˈɛntəs
paw-TEN-tuhs
Definition
Describes something that seems to be a sign or warning that something important or bad will happen; can also mean something done in a solemn or pompous way.
IPA Transcription
American English
pɔɹˈtɛntəs
British English
pɔːtˈɛntəs
Simplified Pronunciation
US
por-TEN-tuhs
UK
paw-TEN-tuhs
Listen in Context
The dark, portentous clouds gathered over the city.
He spoke in a portentous voice about the future.
A portentous silence filled the room before the news.
His portentous manner made everyone nervous, as if something terrible was about to happen.