Dictionary Home » Dictionary Definitions » baleful

baleful

Listen See in Thesaurus See in a sentence

The definition of baleful is something that is threatening and dangerous.

(adjective)

An example of something baleful is a powerful hurricane.

See baleful in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

harmful or threatening harm or evil; ominous; deadly
Archaic sorrowful; wretched

Origin: ME < OE bealoful < bealu, bale + -ful, full

Related Forms:

balefully adverb
balefulness noun

See baleful in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

Portending evil; ominous. See Synonyms at sinister.
Harmful or malignant in intent or effect.

Related Forms:

baleˈful·ly adverb

baleˈful·ness noun

Usage Note: Baleful and baneful overlap in meaning, but baleful usually applies to something that is menacing or foreshadows evil: a baleful look. Baneful most often describes that which is actually harmful or destructive: baneful effects of their foreign policy.

Learn more about baleful

baleful synonyms

baleful in a sentence

link/cite print suggestion box