Definition of premonitorynext
as in warning
serving as or offering a warning a moderate tremor that some seismologists have interpreted as a premonitory sign of the catastrophic quake that is inevitable

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of premonitory Engaging in physical activity may temporarily suppress tics and lessen the premonitory urge. Mill Etienne, Forbes.com, 28 Feb. 2026 Many people feel an unpleasant building sensation before a tic, called a premonitory urge, describing it like an itch that needs to be scratched. Rena Zito, Fortune, 26 Feb. 2026 There is a premonitory moment, too, in this book that wrings so much drama from so many backdoor meetings. Doreen St. Félix, New Yorker, 1 Feb. 2026 As is the way with these premonitory lists, not all games are guaranteed 2025 releases. Matt Gardner, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024 Fashion observers had also noticed that Swift had introduced a premonitory blue bodysuit into her wardrobe at the Tuesday show. Angelique Jackson, Variety, 9 Aug. 2023
Recent Examples of Synonyms for premonitory
Adjective
  • The bureau also will post more warning notices at 750 livestock sale facilities and review other potential changes to federal regulations.
    SCOTT SONNER, Star Tribune, 27 July 2021
  • In response, statistical authorities around the world could do little but issue warning press releases.
    Andrew Whitby, Time, 17 Apr. 2020
Adjective
  • And while the formal rules on travel have relaxed, the admonitory official language is unchanged.
    John Liu, New York Times, 21 Jan. 2023
  • Satire has always had an admonitory function, and besides, some people are so obnoxious that a writer has to slow-walk the reader through their awfulness.
    Judith Shulevitz, The Atlantic, 11 May 2022
Adjective
  • However, his hubris after escaping the Cyclops serves as a critical cautionary tale, highlighting that lasting leadership demands humility alongside intelligence.
    Theodore McDarrah, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026
  • Yet in a couple of years, the Golden Era would start, and Barry Zito would become a beloved part of franchise lore rather than a cautionary tale.
    Grant Brisbee, New York Times, 15 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Premonitory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/premonitory. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

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