How Do You Spell FORERUNNER?

Pronunciation: [fˈɔːɹʌnə] (IPA)

The word "forerunner" is spelled /fɔːrʌnər/. The first sound /f/ represents the voiceless labiodental fricative, followed by the vowel sound /ɔ:/ which is an open-mid back rounded vowel. The letter "r" is pronounced as a vocalic consonant /r/. The sound /ʌ/ represents an open-mid central unrounded vowel, and the letter "n" is pronounced as a nasal consonant /n/. Finally, the word ends with the unstressed vowel sound /ə/, which represents the schwa sound. In summary, the spelling of "forerunner" reflects a combination of voiced and voiceless sounds, various vowels, and nasal and vocalic consonants that create a unique and distinct pronunciation.

FORERUNNER Meaning and Definition

1. A forerunner, also known as a precursor, is a person, thing, or event that comes before and anticipates the arrival or development of something else. It refers to an early indication or sign that hints at the future emergence or occurrence of a particular phenomenon, idea, or event. The term implies a degree of influence, importance, or impact in shaping what comes after it.

   In historical contexts, forerunners can be influential figures who introduce new ideas or movements that later gain momentum and influence a particular period or era. They can be scholars, philosophers, or artists whose works pave the way for significant developments, creating a foundation upon which future progress is built. For example, Socrates is considered a forerunner of Western philosophy due to his pioneering ideas and methods of reasoning.

   Additionally, a forerunner can be an early version or prototype of a particular invention or technology that paves the way for more advanced and refined versions. For instance, the first automobile can be seen as a forerunner of modern cars, as it laid the groundwork for subsequent advancements in automobile engineering.

   Furthermore, a forerunner can refer to an event or situation that serves as a harbinger or warning of something more serious or significant to come. In this sense, it acts as an identifier of potential future outcomes or threats. For example, abnormal weather patterns and seismic activity can be forerunners of natural disasters such as hurricanes or earthquakes.

2. A messenger sent before; a harbinger.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for FORERUNNER

• forrunner
• forernner
• foodrunner
• dorerunner
• corerunner
• vorerunner
• gorerunner
• torerunner
• rorerunner
• firerunner
• foreunner
• foreruner
• forerunne
• formrunner
• forerunnes
• forerunn
• Forrunne
• Forunner
• forruner
• armerunner

Etymology of FORERUNNER

The word "forerunner" comes from the combination of "fore-" and "runner". The prefix "fore-" is derived from the Old English word "fore" meaning "before" or "in front of". It is related to the German word "vor" with the same meaning. The term "runner" originates from the Old English word "rinnan" which means "to run". Hence, "forerunner" literally means "one who runs before", referring to someone or something that comes before and prepares the way for others.

Plural form of FORERUNNER is FORERUNNERS