Omens are signs or events believed to foretell a future occurrence, often perceived as an indication of good or bad fortune. They can manifest in various forms, from natural phenomena and animal behaviors to specific actions or objects. Historically, omens played a significant role in divination and decision-making across cultures, shaping beliefs and influencing behaviors. Interpreting omens involves understanding their symbolic meaning within a particular cultural context and considering the observer's interpretation of the potential outcome.
Omens meaning with examples
- The flock of crows circling the battlefield was seen by many as a grim omen of defeat. Soldiers grew fearful, their morale significantly diminished by the perceived harbinger of doom. Generals tried to countermand, but the ingrained belief in such signs eroded confidence. This dark omen affected strategy and contributed to a major loss. The psychological impact of bad omens could cripple an army's fighting ability, resulting in historical accounts of military failure.
- The recurring dream of a falling house acted as an ominous omen for Sarah, prompting her to sell her house. She disregarded her friends' and family's disbelief. After she sold it, a devastating earthquake struck her street, leading to the house's total destruction. The dream, while not a direct prediction, felt like a premonition of disaster. This event solidified her belief in her intuitive ability to interpret future events.
- During the ancient Roman era, the flight patterns of birds were considered important omens. Augurs carefully observed these patterns before major decisions. Positive patterns, indicating favorable signs, would lead to decisions that were often seen as blessings by the Gods. Negative patterns, pointing towards unfavorable outcomes, would compel leaders to halt their progress and sometimes even change course, as it was viewed as divine intervention.
- In certain cultures, the sudden appearance of a black cat crossing one's path is viewed as a negative omen, indicating ill luck or misfortune. Superstitious individuals might change their route to avoid the perceived bad luck. This belief highlights how cultural interpretations vary, assigning different meanings to similar signs. Some might view the cat crossing path as neutral, whereas others might view the appearance as an unlucky sign.
Omens Synonyms
auguries forewarnings harbingers indicators portents predictions premonitions signs tokens warningsOmens Antonyms
accidents coincidences happenstance random occurrences realities uncertainties unpredictable eventsOmens Crossword Answers
5 Letters
SIGNS
8 Letters
AUGURIES PRESAGES PORTENTS