sinister

adjective

ˈsi-nə-stər How to pronounce sinister (audio)
Definition of sinisternext
as in ominous
being or showing a sign of evil or calamity to come the movie relies too much on sinister background music to create the suspense that the plot sorely lacks

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sinister different from other adjectives like it?

The words baleful and malign are common synonyms of sinister. While all three words mean "seriously threatening evil or disaster," sinister suggests a general or vague feeling of fear or apprehension on the part of the observer.

a sinister aura haunts the place

When is it sensible to use baleful instead of sinister?

The synonyms baleful and sinister are sometimes interchangeable, but baleful imputes perniciousness or destructiveness to something whether working openly or covertly.

exerting a corrupt and baleful influence

When would malign be a good substitute for sinister?

The words malign and sinister are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, malign applies to what is inherently evil or harmful.

the malign effects of racism

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 sinister In the more familiar galaxy far, far away, their friends Hera Syndulla, Ezra Bridger, Zeb Orrelios and Chopper must face the powerful Grand Admiral Thrawn and his sinister allies, who seek to plunge the fledgling New Republic into war. — Angeline Jane Bernabe, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026 The clip released last night shows this is a more complex, sinister strategist than Josh Brolin’s crash-bang-boom baddie Thanos from the previous Avengers pics. — Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 15 Aug. 2026 Rebecca seems sinister but is also tantalizing, especially to Eileen (Thomasin McKenzie), a shy secretary who becomes Rebecca’s… confidant? — Chris Bellamy, Entertainment Weekly, 14 Aug. 2026 Like the initial story, Millie’s employers (Dunst and Kelly portray the spouses) are harboring a dark, sinister secret. — Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sinister
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sinister
  1. ominous
  2. menacing
Adjective
  • His mode of reiteration and attenuation is an ominous portent for the future of fiction.
    — David Denby, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026
  • Once a rare occurrence, the ominous signal is becoming a more regular event thanks to the worsening climate crisis.
    — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of ominous
Adjective
  • But Nile’s menacing quiet luxury also manifests his petulant rebellion and desire to break free from the shadow — and control — of his father, Martin (Jonathan Banks).
    — Fawnia Soo Hoo, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Sliding bass, sharp percussion and dark production create a menacing backdrop for Pop Smoke’s unmistakably deep voice, which lands as another rhythmic element within the track.
    — Brittney Williams, Billboard, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of menacing

Phrases Containing sinister

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singularly
sinister
sink
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Cite this Entry

“Sinister.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sinister. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on sinister

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sinister

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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