Definition

To give a hint or sign about something that will happen in the future.

Example

The dark clouds foreshadow a storm coming soon.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you notice how the author seemed to foreshadow the ending in the first few chapters?

Yeah, it was really clever how he dropped those hints.

I love when a story can do that; it makes the ending even more satisfying.

Exactly! It’s like a puzzle that all comes together at the end.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Foreshadow → It is formed from "fore-" (meaning before) and "shadow" (from Old English "sceadu", meaning shade or shadow). The word "foreshadow" means to indicate or suggest something that will happen in the future, as if casting a shadow before it occurs.

Memory Tip

Think of something that gives a hint or 'shade' ('shadow') of what is to come 'before' ('fore-') — that's why foreshadow means to suggest future events.

Visually Confused Words