forecast

[fawr-kast, -kahst, fohr-]

verb (used with object)

forecast, forecasted, forecasting. 

1. to predict (a future condition or occurrence); calculate in advance.

   to forecast a heavy snowfall; to forecast lower interest rates.

   Synonyms: anticipate, foretell

2. to serve as a prediction of; foreshadow.

3. to contrive or plan beforehand; prearrange.

   Synonyms: project

verb (used without object)

forecast, forecasted, forecasting. 

1. to conjecture beforehand; make a prediction.

   Synonyms: estimate, guess

2. to plan or arrange beforehand.

noun

1. a prediction, especially as to the weather.

2. a conjecture as to something in the future.

   Synonyms: estimate, guess

3. the act, practice, or faculty of forecasting.

4. Archaic.,  foresight in planning.

   Synonyms: prescience, forethought

forecast

/ ˈfɔːˌkɑːst /

verb

1. to predict or calculate (weather, events, etc), in advance

2. (tr) to serve as an early indication of

3. (tr) to plan in advance

noun

1. a statement of probable future weather conditions calculated from meteorological data

2. a prophecy or prediction

3. the practice or power of forecasting

Other Word Forms

• forecastable adjective
• forecaster noun
• reforecast verb (used with object) reforecast, reforecasted, reforecasting
• unforecast adjective
• unforecasted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of forecast¹

First recorded in 1400–50; Middle English (verb) “to plan ahead of time”; fore-, cast ( def. )

Synonym Study

See predict.

Example Sentences

I’d suggest a light puffy jacket if there’s no rain in the forecast, and pants and thermal leggings to keep the chill off.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Party sources say they are sceptical of Labour's plans to bring down the deficit and doubt the OBR's forecasts will bear out in reality.

Read more on BBC

While Storm Amy had been forecast to take effect from Friday afternoon, Mr Hammond said the expedition planned by the men had been "perfectly reasonable" given their experience and the weather conditions on Thursday.

Read more on BBC

Gusts of 60-70mph are forecast with occasional gusts of up to 85mph also possible, so some damage is still likely throughout Saturday.

Read more on BBC

If you want to catch a glimpse keep an eye on the forecast though as cloud may obscure the view in some places.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• anticipate 
• augur 
• calculate 
• conclude 
• determine 
• estimate 
• foresee 
• foretell 
• gauge 
• portend