herald - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
herald Word Meanings
- a person who announces important news
- to proclaim or announce
- to signal the coming of something
herald Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
herald Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhɛr.əld/
US
/ˈhɛr.əld/
herald Word Etymology
herald | her- (prefix) + ald (root) - from Old High German 'heri' meaning 'army' and 'gald' 'to call'. Memory Image: Imagine a medieval banner-bearer announcing the arrival of a triumphant army, waving the flag high.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Herald is a word with both noun and verb forms. Traditionally, a herald announced important news, proclamations, or the arrival of royalty in ceremonial settings. In contemporary use, a herald can describe a person who proclaims news, or something that signals the coming of an event. As a verb, to herald means to announce or to foreshadow; to signal the onset of changes. The word carries a formal, ceremonial tone, but it is also used metaphorically to describe signs that preface a new era or trend. It contrasts with casual terms like announce by stressing significance and grandeur; common phrases include 'herald a new era' or 'herald the arrival'.
Usage Reminders
- Use in formal writing or news contexts
- Distinguish noun vs verb usage
- Herald implies ceremony or significance, not casual announcements
- Common collocations include 'herald a new era' and 'herald the arrival'
- Be careful not to treat it as a simple synonym of 'announce' in everyday speech
- Remember its historical sense adds weight to statements
Common Misconceptions
- It is only a historic term used for messengers of the past.
- It must refer to a specific person named Herald.
- It is a casual synonym for 'announce'.
- It can only describe negative events or bad news.
- It cannot be used with abstract or non-human signals.
Thinking Differences
In English, herald often implies an official or ceremonial signal and can be used metaphorically; learners may confuse it with a plain announcer or think it only refers to historical settings.
Learning Tips
- Learn the noun and verb forms separately
- Pair with formal verbs like announce, proclaim, declare
- Remember phrases: herald a new era; herald the arrival
- Avoid using in casual contexts unless jokingly or poetically
- Notice the ceremonial tone in literature and news
- Practice with historical or ceremonial texts
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'herald'?
A.A person or thing that announces or signals the approach of another
B.A type of physical injury
C.A style of cooking
D.A category of books
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'herald' correctly?
A.The chef will herald a delicious meal for the guests.
B.The flowers herald the arrival of spring.
C.She decided to herald her favorite book with a review.
D.He felt a herald pain in his leg.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'herald'?
A.Announcer
B.Delete
C.Calculate
D.Confuse
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'herald'?
A.Reveal
B.Enhance
C.Conceal
D.Encourage
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where the concept of heralding is relevant?
A.A team won the championship and celebrated their victory.
B.The first flowers blooming in spring can signal new beginnings.
C.A new law was passed that affected many citizens.
D.A person decided to quit their job for personal reasons.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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