bode
12 synonyms for bode, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To be a sign that something (usually bad) will happen; to portend.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use bode
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
bode well
bode ill
does not bode well
Etymology
From Old English bodian, "to announce or foretell," related to the word bid.
Full origin of bode →Frequently asked questions
What does “bode” mean?
The word “bode” means to be a sign that something (usually bad) will happen; to portend. In plain terms, to be a warning sign of what's likely to happen next.
How do you pronounce “bode”?
“Bode” is pronounced bohd (/boʊd/ in IPA).
How do you use “bode” in a sentence?
Here is “bode” used in a sentence: “The dark clouds bode ill for tomorrow's picnic.”
What part of speech is “bode”?
“Bode” is a verb.
Where does the word “bode” come from?
The word “bode” comes from Old English. From Old English bodian, "to announce or foretell," related to the word bid.