ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sinister

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈsɪnɪstɝ// UK //sˈɪnɪstɐ// sin·is·ter Archaic

adj. giving the impression that something evil or harmful is going to happen. You use this to describe things that feel threatening or creepy.

adj. suggesting or conveying an impression of evil, harm, or trouble. Often used to describe atmosphere, appearance, or intent.


SIMPLE

The old house looked sinister in the moonlight.

CONTEXTUAL

A sinister figure was seen lurking in the shadows near the bank's side entrance.

COMPLEX

The film uses low lighting and a deep, pulsing soundtrack to create a sinister atmosphere that keeps the audience in a state of constant anxiety.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English sinistre (“unlucky”), from Old French senestre, sinistre (“left”), from Latin sinister (“left hand”).

Usage

Typically precedes the noun it modifies or follows a linking verb like 'look' or 'seem'.

Idioms1 entry

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