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
Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 Mar. 2026
The greatest writers never lose sight of eternity, it has been said, no matter how loud or twisted the events in the foreground.
—Literary Hub, 9 Mar. 2026
Linnie Greene, Pitchfork, 9 Mar. 2026
Eco effort As part of Hyatt, the hotel follows broader brand sustainability initiatives, including energy and water conservation measures, though this isn’t a property that foregrounds eco messaging.
—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for foreground
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Noun
The telescope will be used to observe the radio sky at frequencies below 50 MHz and will measure the low-frequency foreground of the universe.
—Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 Mar. 2026
The greatest writers never lose sight of eternity, it has been said, no matter how loud or twisted the events in the foreground.
—Literary Hub, 9 Mar. 2026
Verb
As co-producer, Jay Som’s Melina Duterte foregrounds texture and dimension, balancing gloss with crunchy vocals that feel like acrylics gliding down your back.
—Linnie Greene, Pitchfork, 9 Mar. 2026
Eco effort As part of Hyatt, the hotel follows broader brand sustainability initiatives, including energy and water conservation measures, though this isn’t a property that foregrounds eco messaging.
—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Mar. 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 13 Mar. 2026.
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