harbinger
harbinger Lexical Profile
harbinger Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person or thing that announces or signals the approach of another; a forerunner or precursor.
"The arrival of the first robins is widely regarded as a welcome harbinger of spring."
An official formerly sent ahead to inspect and secure lodgings for a royal retinue or army (historical).
"The royal harbinger rode into the town a week ahead of the monarch to arrange accommodations for the court."
• verb
To signal, announce, or foreshadow the approach of an event or condition.
"The sudden drop in barometric pressure harbingered a severe coastal storm."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'herbergere', borrowed from Old French 'herbergeor' (one who provides lodging or goes ahead to secure quarters for a royal party or army), ultimately of Germanic origin and cognate with 'harbor'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.