Forecast

/ˈfɔːrkæst/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A prediction or estimate of future events, particularly concerning the weather.

The weather forecast predicts rain for the weekend.

A statement about the future based on analysis or interpretation of data.

The economic forecast suggests a slowdown in growth next year.

verb

To predict or estimate a future event or trend.

Meteorologists forecast that temperatures will rise this week.

To make a prediction about future events based on current data.

Analysts forecast an increase in sales during the holiday season.

From Middle English 'forcasten', from 'for-' (before) + 'casten' (to throw or estimate).

weather forecast

A prediction of the weather for a specific area and time.

economic forecast

An estimation of future economic conditions.

long-range forecast

A prediction for a longer time frame, typically beyond just a few days.

prognosis

A forecast about the likely outcome of a situation, often used in medical contexts.

projection

An estimate or forecast of a future situation based on a study of present trends.

To predict the outcome of an event in a casual or humorous way.

I can totally forecast that you'll be late to the party again!

To give a non-serious or exaggerated prediction.

She always forecasts doom and gloom whenever there's a minor storm.