Meaning
Sinister means something that seems evil, harmful, or threatening. It describes an appearance, action, or situation that gives a feeling of danger or wicked intent.
Grammar and Usage
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Part of speech: Adjective
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Typical structure:
- a sinister look / smile / plan / atmosphere
- something sinister about (someone/something)
It often describes tone, mood, or appearance rather than direct actions.
Derived forms
- Sinisterly (adverb): in an evil or menacing way He smiled sinisterly.
- Sinisterness (noun): the quality of being sinister
Common Phrases
- a sinister plot — an evil or secret plan
- a sinister force — a harmful power or influence
- a sinister presence — an eerie or threatening feeling in a place
Collocations
- sinister + figure / plan / motive / atmosphere / smile / tone / intention / shadow / whisper / force
Examples
- There was something sinister about the way he looked at me.
- The movie had a sinister atmosphere that made everyone uneasy.
- She gave him a sinister smile before leaving the room.
- Police uncovered a sinister plan behind the company’s operations.
- The dark clouds created a sinister mood over the village.
- His sinister tone made it clear he was not joking.
- They felt a sinister presence in the old house.
- The rumors had a sinister effect on the town’s reputation.
- The sinister shadow crept across the wall.
- Something sinister was hiding beneath his calm appearance.
Synonyms or Related
- evil
- menacing
- ominous
- threatening
- malevolent
- dark
Antonym
- kind
- benevolent
- friendly
- harmless