inauspicious

adjective

in·​aus·​pi·​cious ˌi-ˌnȯ-ˈspi-shəs How to pronounce inauspicious (audio)
Synonyms of inauspicious
: not auspicious
an inauspicious start
inauspiciously adverb
inauspiciousness noun

Synonyms of inauspicious

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Examples of inauspicious in a Sentence

Despite its inauspicious beginnings, the company eventually became very profitable. this many problems so early in the project is a most inauspicious sign
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Ohtani’s seventh inning got off to an inauspicious start. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2026 In my line of work, there are few things as inauspicious as a plucky gal determined to make the best of a bad situation. — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026 Despite an inauspicious varsity debut, Selders bounced back to begin last season as the Bulldogs’ third baseman. — Steve Reaven, Chicago Tribune, 30 Apr. 2026 Although economists disagree in their predictions, the future of the job market seems inauspicious, especially for white-collar workers. — Gideon Lewis-Kraus, New Yorker, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for inauspicious

Word History

First Known Use

1599, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inauspicious was in 1599

Rhymes for inauspicious

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Browse Nearby Words

inaugurator
inauspicious
inauspiciously
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Cite this Entry

“Inauspicious.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inauspicious. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inauspicious

adjective
in·​aus·​pi·​cious ˌin-ȯ-ˈspish-əs How to pronounce inauspicious (audio)
: not auspicious : not looking good for future success
inauspiciously adverb
inauspiciousness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on inauspicious

Nglish: Translation of inauspicious for Spanish Speakers

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