foreshadow
UK: fɔːˈʃædəʊ | US: fɔːrˈʃædoʊ
vt. to indicate or suggest something (usually negative) before it happens
vt. to serve as a warning or sign of a future event
n. (rare) a warning or indication of a future event
The word combines "fore-" (Old English fore, meaning "before" or "in front of") and "shadow" (Old English sceaduwe, meaning "shade" or "darkness"). The concept metaphorically suggests casting a "shadow" ahead of an event, hinting at its arrival. This structure reflects the Germanic tendency to create compound words for abstract concepts. Historically, "shadow" carried ominous connotations, aligning with the word’s typical use for negative foresight.
The dark clouds foreshadowed the coming storm.
Her uneasy dreams foreshadowed the tragedy that would unfold.
The novel’s opening scene subtly foreshadows the protagonist’s downfall.
Economic indicators often foreshadow changes in employment rates.
His silence during the meeting foreshadowed his resignation.