I. ˈfōrˌkast, ˈfȯr-, ˈfōəˌ-, ˈfȯ(ə)ˌ-, -ˌkaa(ə)st, -ˌkaist, -ˌkȧst also ̷ ̷ˈ ̷ ̷ verb
( forecast or forecasted ; forecast or forecasted ; forecasting ; forecasts )
Etymology: Middle English forcasten, forecasten, from for-, fore- fore- + casten to cast, contrive — more at cast
transitive verb
1. archaic : to plan ahead : scheme , foreordain
2.
a. : to anticipate, calculate, or predict (some future event or condition) usually as a result of rational study and analysis of available pertinent data
it should be possible to forecast accurately swings in the business cycle
the guide forecast good fishing if the weather held
especially : to predict (weather conditions) usually on the basis of correlated meteorological observations
b. : to indicate or hint at as likely to occur or ensue
optimists are forecasting an immediate upswing in business
3. : to serve as a forecast of : foretell , presage
such events forecast war
intransitive verb
1. obsolete : to contrive or plan beforehand
2. : to calculate the future : foresee , foretell
if it turns out as I forecasted
Synonyms: see foretell
II. ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷ noun
Etymology: Middle English forcast, forecast, from for-, fore- fore- + cast cast, plan — more at cast
1. obsolete
a. : previous contrivance or determination
b. : plan , design
2. archaic : foresight of consequences and provision against them : prevision , forethought
3. : a prophecy, estimate, or prediction of a future happening or condition
waited for the noon weather forecast