Foreseen

/ˌfɔːrˈsiːn/ verb

Definition

To predict or imagine something that will happen in the future before it actually occurs.

Etymology

From 'fore' (meaning 'before') and 'see,' both Old English words. The past participle 'foreseen' comes from this combination dating back to at least the 9th century.

Kelly Says

The prefix 'fore-' appears in dozens of English words (forecast, forehead, forest, forget) and originally meant 'before' in both time and space, which is why 'forehead' is literally the 'head-before' or front of your head.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.