verb (used with object)
- to give evidence of; indicate: to betoken one’s fidelity with a vow; a kiss that betokens one’s affection.
- to be or give a token or sign of; portend: a thunderclap that betokens foul weather; an angry word that betokens hostility.
verb (tr)
- to indicate; signifyblack clothes betoken mourning
- to portend; augur
late 12c., from be- + Old English tacnian “to signify,” from tacn “sign” (see token). Related: Betokened; betokening.