as in to indicate
to serve as a sign or symptom of the humor in his writing is never cruel, and betokens a warm and compassionate heart

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 betoken Its arrival betokened a more gentrified, sanitized Village — a place of $73 million townhouses and celebrity brunches. New York Times, 7 May 2025 The Wiseman reference betokens a certain seriousness on the part of the creators, an awareness that people might be watching who know a thing or two about the subject. Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2025 Those acts betoken a more significant change. Paul Elie, The New Yorker, 26 Feb. 2025 Both the hosting of the Games and the adoption of the euro in 2001 seemed to betoken an unaccustomed self-confidence, optimism and national pride among Greeks. Alan Cowell, New York Times, 5 Jan. 2025 Both the hosting of the Games and the adoption of the euro in 2001 seemed to betoken an unaccustomed self-confidence, optimism and national pride among Greeks. Alan Cowell, New York Times, 5 Jan. 2025 The book betokens an acceptance of ever-encroaching mortality. Christina Cacouris, The New Yorker, 24 Sep. 2024 Ted Kennedy’s 31% in Iowa and 37% in New Hampshire in 1980 betokened a long and bitter campaign for Jimmy Carter. Ross Douthat, The Mercury News, 17 Jan. 2024 While many stations have had their tiles replaced, the tiles at those two are original (dating from 1910 and 1906, respectively), betokened by their rich luster and fine cracks, like those seen in oil paintings. Andrew Martin, Travel + Leisure, 15 Jan. 2024
Recent Examples of Synonyms for betoken
Verb
  • So far, there's nothing to indicate any criminality Carl DeFazio, formerly of the NYPD, was brought on as the private investigator in the case.
    July 5, CBS News, 5 July 2025
  • Look for the first hints of color change to indicate a tomato is ready to harvest.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 5 July 2025
Verb
  • That means one of those outfielders is likely to be traded or otherwise off the team in short order.
    Jon Vankin, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025
  • That means if companies do as Trump asks, then America can’t raise tariff revenue from them.
    David Goldman, CNN Money, 7 July 2025
Verb
  • Today's the beginning of the Dry January campaign, signified by the color yellow.
    Maria Leontaras, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
  • Its streamlined profile, outsole made for smooth transitions (courtesy of the segmented crash pad), and midsole that adapts to your unique speed and stride are all elements that signify the brand’s devotion to high-quality craftsmanship.
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 1 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Betoken.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/betoken. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

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