Forthought

/ˈfɔrθˌθɔt/ noun

Definition

Premeditation or deliberate intention; a thought formed in advance.

Etymology

Past tense nominalization of 'forthink,' using the strong verb form with vowel change. In legal and philosophical contexts, refers to the deliberate nature of an action.

Kelly Says

In Shakespeare's time, 'forthought' was the legal term separating murder from manslaughter—the difference between 'forthought' malice and a crime committed in the heat of passion was literally the difference between hanging and exile!

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