Portend has been used in English in the context of signs of things to come since the 15th century. The word derives from the Latin verb portendere, which means "to predict or foretell." That verb, in turn, developed as a combination of the prefix por- (meaning "forward") and the verb "tendere" (meaning "to stretch").

Is portend a negative word?

While foreshadowing can augur either positive or negative happenings, portend is a specific kind of foreshadowing for something unfortunate or catastrophic like death or destruction.

What is the difference between portent and portend?

(transitive) To serve as a warning or omen of. Something that portends an event about to occur, especially an unfortunate or evil event; an omen. That which portends, or foretoken; esp., that which portends evil; a sign of coming calamity; an omen; a sign. ...