Definition

To predict something that will happen in the future.

Example

The weather forecast can foretell rain for tomorrow.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever tried to foretell the weather?

Sometimes, but it's usually just a guess for me.

Yeah, I feel like the apps are better at foretelling than we are.

Definitely! They seem to know more than we do.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Foretell → It is formed from "fore-" (meaning before) and "tell" (from Old English "tellan", meaning to count or relate). The word "foretell" means to tell or predict something before it happens.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fore-' meaning 'before' and 'tell' meaning 'to relate' — this helps you remember that to foretell is to predict or relate something that will happen in the future.

Visually Confused Words