noun

harbinger

harbinger, forerunner, precursor, sign

The robin is a harbinger of spring.

The robin is a harbinger of spring.

These results are a harbinger of success.

These results are a harbinger of success.

a harbinger of ((sth.)) a sign of (sth.) The dark clouds were a harbinger of the storm.

Synonyms: precursor, forerunner, herald, sign, omen

From Old French 'herbergier' (to provide lodging). Originally, it meant a person sent ahead to arrange lodgings for an army or royalty.

Think of a 'harbor bringer' – someone who brings news that a safe harbor (or a new event) is near.

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