presage

UK: ˈprɛsɪdʒ | US: ˈprɛsɪdʒ

Definition

  1. n. a sign or warning of something to come; an omen

  2. vt. to predict or foreshadow a future event

Structure
pre <before>sage <to perceive>
Etymology

The word "presage" originates from Latin praesagium, combining prae- (before) and sagire (to perceive). It reflects the idea of perceiving or sensing something before it happens, often through intuitive or supernatural means. Over time, it evolved in Middle English to denote both the act of foretelling and the omen itself, retaining its dual noun/verb usage.

Examples

  1. The dark clouds were a presage of the coming storm.

  2. Her dreams seemed to presage the tragic events that followed.

  3. Ancient cultures often interpreted eclipses as a presage of doom.

  4. The economist's report presaged a recession.

  5. His sudden silence presaged an angry outburst.