forethought

1 of 2

noun

fore·​thought ˈfȯr-ˌthȯt How to pronounce forethought (audio)
Synonyms of forethoughtnext
1
: a thinking or planning out in advance : premeditation
2
: consideration for the future

forethought

2 of 2

adjective

archaic

Examples of forethought in a Sentence

Noun Her decision showed a lack of forethought. With a little forethought, you can save yourself a lot of work later on.
Recent Examples on the Web
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Noun
The fact is, effective protection requires some forethought that takes legal, economic, and personal variables into consideration in order to withstand future pressures. Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 10 Feb. 2026 Lucy’s real flaw is and always has been a lack of capacity for forethought. Kathleen Walsh, Vulture, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
An Ivy-League worthy essay, on the other hand, requires forethought, strategy, and a clear understanding of the unique type of writing characteristic of a compelling personal statement. Christopher Rim, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025 Our Connecticut Democratic Party should choose a new leader to steer our state with forethought, vision, and the passion to engage fully in all aspects of what the job requires. Nick Gauthier, Hartford Courant, 7 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for forethought

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of forethought was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Forethought.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forethought. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

forethought

noun
fore·​thought
ˈfō(ə)r-ˌthȯt
ˈfȯ(ə)r-
: thought or care taken in advance
forethoughtful
-fəl
adjective

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