The term 'was a sign of' can be completed with three different words: AUGURED (7 letters), omened (6 letters), and PORTENDED (9 letters). AUGURED is derived from the Latin verb augurare, which means to predict or foretell. It is often used to refer to a sign or prediction of future events. Omened is derived from the Latin word omen, which refers to an event or occurrence that is believed to portend a good or bad outcome. PORTENDED is derived from the Latin verb portendere, which means to foretell or indicate something in advance. It is often used to refer to a sign or indication of something that will happen in the future.