fore·ground
ˈfȯr-ˌgrau̇nd 
1
: the part of a scene or representation that is nearest to and in front of the spectator
Objects in the foreground seem larger than those in the background.
2
: a position of prominence : forefront
We want this issue to be in the foreground.
3
: a level of computer processing at which the processor responds immediately to input to a designated high-priority task compare background
foregrounded; foregrounding; foregrounds
: to bring to the foreground
especially
: to give prominence or emphasis to
Examples of foreground in a Sentence
Noun
We want the issue to be in the foreground.
Verb
Public discussion has foregrounded the issue of health care.
repeatedly foregrounded his experience in international affairs in the course of his campaign for the presidency
Recent Examples on the Web
Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 23 Apr. 2026
The two-panel composition, installed in 1899 at the Second Congregational Church in Winsted, shows a lush landscape at sunset, with a cascading waterfall in the foreground, and flowering lilies and irises set against distant mountains.
—Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 21 Apr. 2026
Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 20 Apr. 2026
By creating a new paradigm that differs from the green-screen approach of many top-end productions, Erwin says Innovative Dreams is reaffirming the importance of human actors and foregrounding their performances.
—Dade Hayes, Deadline, 16 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for foreground
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Noun
Prince set up his camera to have the statue of the author in the Dana Point Harbor in the foreground as the rocket, with its long contrail, passed.
—Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 23 Apr. 2026
The two-panel composition, installed in 1899 at the Second Congregational Church in Winsted, shows a lush landscape at sunset, with a cascading waterfall in the foreground, and flowering lilies and irises set against distant mountains.
—Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 21 Apr. 2026
Verb
If in previous seasons, Euphoria foregrounded erotic imagery to make a point about the confusing and often painful process of coming to terms with one’s sexuality, now that poignancy is gone.
—Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 20 Apr. 2026
By creating a new paradigm that differs from the green-screen approach of many top-end productions, Erwin says Innovative Dreams is reaffirming the importance of human actors and foregrounding their performances.
—Dade Hayes, Deadline, 16 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for foreground
Cite this Entry
“Foreground.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foreground. Accessed 29 Apr. 2026.
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