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foreground

1 of 2

noun

fore·​ground ˈfȯr-ˌgrau̇nd How to pronounce foreground (audio)
Synonyms of foregroundnext
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

foreground

2 of 2

verb

foregrounded; foregrounding; foregrounds

transitive verb

: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The researchers used eight such lens systems, each involving a foreground galaxy and a background quasar. Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 7 Dec. 2025 Mission scientists also expect the telescope to detect more than 100,000 exoplanets by monitoring subtle gravitational lensing events, whereby a larger foreground object magnifies the light from a more distant source that cannot otherwise be observed directly. Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 5 Dec. 2025
Verb
The brand’s marketing leans into this, foregrounding local manufacturing, traceable materials and craftsmanship. Kirsty McGregor, Vogue, 27 Nov. 2025 For Bonhomme, however, this new focus simply foregrounds what was already there. Ben Croll, Variety, 25 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for foreground

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1695, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of foreground was in 1695

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Cite this Entry

“Foreground.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foreground. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

foreground

noun
fore·​ground
ˈfō(ə)r-ˌgrau̇nd
ˈfȯ(ə)r-
: the part of a scene or picture that is nearest to and in front of the viewer

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