verb
foretell
faw-TEH
Foretell (verb) means to predict or announce something before it happens. Example: “The old prophecy seemed to foretell the city's downfall.”
verb
1
To predict or announce something before it happens.
"The old prophecy seemed to foretell the city's downfall."
"No one could foretell how the election would turn out."
How to use foretell
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo say what will happen before it actually does, often with a hint of prophecy.
When to use it
Slightly more literary/formal than "predict."
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- foretells
- Past tense
- foretold
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The old prophecy seemed to _____ the city's downfall.
Etymology
From Middle English foretellen — fore- + tell.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “foretell” mean?
The word “foretell” means to predict or announce something before it happens. In plain terms, to say what will happen before it actually does, often with a hint of prophecy.
How do you pronounce “foretell”?
“Foretell” is pronounced faw-TEH ([fɔɹˈtɛɫ] in IPA).
How do you use “foretell” in a sentence?
Here is “foretell” used in a sentence: “The old prophecy seemed to foretell the city's downfall.”
What is another word for “foretell”?
Words with a similar meaning to “foretell” include foresay and forespeak.
What part of speech is “foretell”?
“Foretell” is a verb.
Where does the word “foretell” come from?
The word “foretell” comes from Middle English. From Middle English foretellen — fore- + tell.
