Omen

usgb/ˈəʊmən/
noun

A sign or signal that something, especially something bad, will happen in the future.

The black cat crossing the road was thought to be an omen of bad luck.
Visual representation of "omen" - A sign or signal that something, especially something bad, will happen in the future

Often appears as...

  • bad omen
  • good omen
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Visual representation of "omen"
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Cultural Interpretations

The meaning of an omen can vary across different cultures; some see owls as bad omens, others as wise.

Illustration for Cultural Interpretations
In many cultures, an owl is an omen of wisdom.
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Good or Bad

Omens can be positive or negative; context reveals if something is a fortunate or grim forecast.

Illustration for Good or Bad
A shooting star is often considered a good omen.
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Superstition Link

Omens are heavily linked to superstitions; some people take them seriously while others don't.

Illustration for Superstition Link
Knocking on wood is done to prevent a spoken omen from coming true.
Visual representation of the word "Omen"

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