baleful Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite deadly or sinister
    baneful.
    • the Florida eagles have a fierce baleful look
  2. adjective satellite threatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developments
    minatory; minacious; sinister; threatening; forbidding; ominous; menacing.
    • a baleful look
    • forbidding thunderclouds
    • his tone became menacing
    • ominous rumblings of discontent
    • sinister storm clouds
    • a sinister smile
    • his threatening behavior
    • ugly black clouds
    • the situation became ugly

WordNet

Bale"ful adjective
Etymology
AS. bealoful. See Bale misery.
Definitions
  1. Full of deadly or pernicious influence; destructive. "Baleful enemies." Shak.
    Four infernal rivers that disgorge Into the burning lake their baleful streams. Milton.
  2. Full of grief or sorrow; woeful; sad. Archaic

Webster 1913