To run ahead of something, or to serve as a sign or warning that something is coming.
From 'fore-' (before) + 'run' (from Old English 'rinnan'). Originally meant to go before in a literal sense, then extended to mean to precede as a sign.
In ancient Rome, a 'forerun' messenger on horseback would ride ahead of the main army to scout—this practice inspired countless stories about prophetic messengers bringing warnings of approaching armies.
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