foreknow

verb

fore·​know (ˌ)fȯr-ˈnō 

foreknew (ˌ)fȯr-ˈnü 

-ˈnyü

; foreknown (ˌ)fȯr-ˈnōn  ; foreknowing

transitive verb

: to have previous knowledge of : know beforehand especially by paranormal means or by revelation

foreknowledge

ˈfȯr-ˌnä-lij 

(ˌ)fȯr-ˈnä-

noun

Synonyms

• anticipate
• divine
• forefeel
• foresee
• prevision

Choose the Right Synonym for foreknow

foresee, foreknow, divine, anticipate mean to know beforehand.

foresee implies nothing about how the knowledge is derived and may apply to ordinary reasoning and experience.

economists should have foreseen the recession

foreknow usually implies supernatural assistance, as through revelation.

if only we could foreknow our own destinies

divine adds to foresee the suggestion of exceptional wisdom or discernment.

was able to divine Europe's rapid recovery from the war

anticipate implies taking action about or responding emotionally to something before it happens.

the waiter anticipated our every need

Example Sentences

what couple can possibly foreknow the trials and tribulations that marriage will bring?

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

foreknow

verb

fore·​know (ˈ)fōr-ˈnō 

(ˈ)fȯr-

foreknew -ˈn(y)ü  ; foreknown -ˈnōn  ; foreknowing

: to have earlier knowledge of : know beforehand

foreknowledge

-ˈnäl-ij 

noun