foreordain

UK: fɔːrɔːˈdeɪn | US: fɔːroʊrˈdeɪn

Definition

  1. vt. to determine or decree beforehand; predestine

Structure
fore <before>ordain <decree>
Etymology

foreordain = fore<before> + ordain<decree>

  • fore: From Old English fore-, meaning "before" (temporal or spatial).
  • ordain: From Latin ordinare (to arrange, decree), via Old French ordener.

Etymology Origin:
The word combines "fore" (indicating precedence) with "ordain" (to establish by authority). It reflects the theological concept of divine predestination, where events or fates are decreed in advance. The morphemes retain their original meanings, merging logically to convey "to decree beforehand."

Examples

  1. The prophecy seemed to foreordain the hero’s tragic fate.

  2. Some believe their destinies are foreordained by a higher power.

  3. The council’s decision appeared foreordained after weeks of debate.

  4. His leadership role felt foreordained from childhood.

  5. Critics argued the election was foreordained due to systemic bias.