harbinger

[ˈhɑːbɪndʒər]

harbinger Definition

  • 1a person or thing that announces or signals the approach of another
  • 2a forerunner of something

Using harbinger: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "harbinger" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The first flowers of spring are often seen as a harbinger of warmer weather to come.

  • Example

    The sudden drop in sales was a harbinger of the company's financial troubles.

  • Example

    The dark clouds on the horizon were a harbinger of the storm to come.

harbinger Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for harbinger

Antonyms for harbinger

Idioms Using harbinger

  • a harbinger of things to come

    a sign or indication of what will happen in the future

    Example

    The recent economic downturn is a harbinger of things to come.

  • a harbinger of good things to come

    a sign or indication of positive developments in the future

    Example

    The success of their first album was a harbinger of good things to come for the band.

  • a harbinger of bad things to come

    a sign or indication of negative developments in the future

    Example

    The recent spate of layoffs was a harbinger of bad things to come for the company.

Phrases with harbinger

  • a person or thing that is seen as a sign of impending disaster or misfortune

    Example

    The sudden resignation of the CEO was seen as a harbinger of doom for the company.

  • a plant or animal whose arrival is seen as a sign that spring has arrived

    Example

    The return of the swallows is a harbinger of spring in many cultures.

  • a person or thing that is seen as a sign of impending change or innovation

    Example

    The new product line was seen as a harbinger of change for the company.

Origins of harbinger

from Old French 'herbergere', meaning 'lodging place'

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Summary: harbinger in Brief

'Harbinger' [ˈhɑːbɪndʒər] refers to a person or thing that signals the approach of another, often used to describe a forerunner of something. It can be a sign of impending disaster or change, as in 'The sudden drop in sales was a harbinger of the company's financial troubles.' 'Harbinger' extends into phrases like 'harbinger of doom,' and idioms like 'a harbinger of things to come,' denoting a sign or indication of what will happen in the future.