Bellwether

usgb/ˈbelweðər/
noun

A leader or trendsetter in a particular field.

Because of its technology sector, California is often a bellwether for the nation.
Visual representation of "bellwether" - A leader or trendsetter in a particular field.

Often appears as...

  • economic bellwether
  • bellwether stock

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 2
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Business Indicator

Bellwether often indicates a company that signals the state of the economy or an industry.

Illustration for Business Indicator
The quarterly sales of the bellwether are used to predict retail trends.
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Political Predictions

In political discussions, 'bellwether' predicts trends in elections or policies.

Illustration for Political Predictions
Bellwether regions can help forecast the outcome of national elections.
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Cultural Change

'Bellwether' is used when identifying things that shape cultural shifts.

Illustration for Cultural Change
Popular bloggers can act as bellwethers for emerging fashion trends.
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barometerforerunnerleaderpioneerprecedentialtrailblazertrendsettervanguard
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