precursor

[pri-kur-ser, pree-kur-]

noun

1. a person or thing that precedes, as in a job, a method, etc.; predecessor.

   Synonyms: forerunner

2. a person, animal, or thing that goes before and indicates the approach of someone or something else; harbinger.

   The first robin is a precursor of spring.

   Synonyms: herald

3. Chemistry, Biochemistry.,  a chemical that is transformed into another compound, as in the course of a chemical reaction, and therefore precedes that compound in the synthetic pathway.

   Cholesterol is a precursor of testosterone.

4. Biology.,  a cell or tissue that gives rise to a variant, specialized, or more mature form.

precursor

/ prɪˈkɜːsə /

noun

1. a person or thing that precedes and shows or announces someone or something to come; harbinger

2. a predecessor or forerunner

3. a chemical substance that gives rise to another more important substance

Word History and Origins

Origin of precursor¹

1375–1425; late Middle English < Latin praecursor forerunner. See pre-, cursor

Word History and Origins

Origin of precursor¹

C16: from Latin praecursor one who runs in front, from praecurrere, from prae in front + currere to run

Example Sentences

Many editions of “Frankenstein” were on display, including a 1934 cult favorite from illustrator Lynd Ward, often credited as the precursor of the graphic novel.

From Los Angeles Times

Government claims are usually a precursor to a lawsuit.

From Los Angeles Times

They might not have heard of Kirk before his assassination, but they now worry about what’s next — because a killing this prominent is usually a precursor of worse times ahead.

From Los Angeles Times

Harvey’s appointment is likely a precursor to larger changes at the program, including a possible return to a single anchor and a more traditional approach to the newscast.

From Los Angeles Times

The rate of return, particularly on fentanyl, is huge; according to a 2023 indictment, hundreds of dollars in precursor chemicals can net profits 200 to 800 times larger.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• forerunner 
• harbinger