Synonyms for

Sinister

Verb / ˈsɪnɪstɜ: / Another word for sinister — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Sinister means giving the impression that something harmful or evil is happening or will happen.

Synonyms & similar words

black baleful forbidding minacious minatory menacing dark threatening ominous evil wicked malevolent diabolical ominous threatening foreboding dark macabre spooky creepy frightening terrifying petrifying dreadful alarming ghastly horrifying scary fearsome

Synonyms by register

Formal

ominous threatening menacing baleful

Informal

creepy shady sketchy fishy

Literary

nefarious pernicious dire

Antonyms

benevolent benign harmless innocent auspicious favorable good

Common collocations

  • sinister plot
  • sinister motive
  • sinister smile
  • sinister intent
  • sinister forces
  • sinister atmosphere
  • sinister look

Word family

noun sinisterness
adverb sinisterly

Usage note

Primarily used to describe something that appears evil or harmful, often with a sense of foreboding. It carries a strong negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The dark and sinister alley made me feel uneasy.
  2. The sinister smile on his face made me think twice about trusting him.
  3. The sinister plot of the movie had me on the edge of my seat.
  4. The sinister looking spider scared me.
  5. The sinister sound in the haunted house made me feel scared.

Quotes

  • I have a very dark and sinister side.
  • The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it.
  • A mask of gold hides all deformities.

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