Langimage
English

herald

|her/ald|

B2

/ˈhɛrəld/

sign or messenger

Etymology
Etymology Information

'herald' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'herault', where 'her-' meant 'army' and '-ault' meant 'to govern or command'.

Historical Evolution

'herault' transformed into the Middle English word 'herald', and eventually became the modern English word 'herald'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'an official messenger', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a sign or indication of something'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person or thing viewed as a sign that something is about to happen.

The flowers are heralds of spring.

Synonyms

Noun 2

an official messenger bringing news.

The king's herald announced the arrival of the queen.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to be a sign that something is about to happen.

The new technology heralds a revolution in communication.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to acclaim or announce enthusiastically.

The film was heralded as a masterpiece.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40