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herald

Q: How is the word 'herald' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of herald are forerunner , harbinger , and precursor . While all these words mean "one that goes before or announces the coming of another," harbinger and herald both apply, chiefly figuratively, to one that proclaims or announces the coming or arrival of a notable event. // their early victory was the harbinger of a winning season // the herald of a new age in medicine

Q: In what contexts can 'forerunner' take the place of 'herald'?

Although the words forerunner and herald have much in common, forerunner is applicable to anything that serves as a sign or presage. // the blockade was the forerunner of war

Q: When is it sensible to use 'precursor' instead of 'herald'?

While in some cases nearly identical to herald , precursor applies to a person or thing paving the way for the success or accomplishment of another. // 18th century poets like Burns were precursors of the Romantics

noun

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Synonyms & Antonyms of herald

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 a person who actively supports or favors a cause

an outspoken herald of prison reform

Synonyms for herald

Words Related to herald

interpreter

Near Antonyms for herald

Antonyms for herald

2 one that announces or indicates the later arrival of another

the American robin—the herald of spring in the North

Synonyms for herald

Words Related to herald

bellwether

herald

verb

Synonyms & Antonyms of herald (Entry 2 of 2)

1 to give a slight indication of beforehand

the reshuffle of the company's management heralded the sweeping changes to come

Synonyms for herald

Words Related to herald

forewarn

2 to make known openly or publicly

herald the great tidings to all the world

Synonyms for herald

Words Related to herald

bill,
billboard,
bulletin,
gazette
[chiefly British]

Phrases Synonymous with herald

Near Antonyms for herald

Frequently Asked Questions About herald

How is the word herald distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of herald are forerunner, harbinger, and precursor. While all these words mean "one that goes before or announces the coming of another," harbinger and herald both apply, chiefly figuratively, to one that proclaims or announces the coming or arrival of a notable event.

their early victory was the harbinger of a winning season

the herald of a new age in medicine

In what contexts can forerunner take the place of herald?

Although the words forerunner and herald have much in common, forerunner is applicable to anything that serves as a sign or presage.

the blockade was the forerunner of war

When is it sensible to use precursor instead of herald?

While in some cases nearly identical to herald, precursor applies to a person or thing paving the way for the success or accomplishment of another.

18th century poets like Burns were precursors of the Romantics

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