Baleful – Threatening harmful or expressing harmful intentions

(Pronounced bayl-fuhl)

To remember the definition of the word baleful, use the following mnemonic:

The bale of hay was lifted fully (baleful) above his head and the farmer threatened to drop it on his head. 

Examples of baleful in a sentence

The wolf gave me a baleful look.

With baleful eyes, the vulture stared at the injured gazelle.

As soon as the sailor heard the baleful winds, he knew a storm was coming.