
Forerunner
Historic Link
Used to describe historic precursors to modern items or concepts.

The steam engine was a forerunner to modern locomotives.
Indicate Progression
Suggests a development or evolution from one state to another over time.

Early smartphones were the forerunner of today's advanced mobile devices.
Not Just Physical
Can refer to abstract concepts, such as ideas or movements, not just physical objects.

18th-century enlightenment thought was the forerunner of modern democracy.
Compare with
AntecedentHarbingerHeraldPioneerPrecursorPredecessorTrailblazerVanguard
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension