something that precedes and indicates the approach of something or someone
"The sudden drop in temperature served as a herald of the approaching storm, prompting everyone to secure their windows before the rain arrived."
A messenger, especially one bringing important news.
"The fishermen spotted a herald skimming low over the choppy waves before the storm hit."
Alternative form of hareld (“long-tailed duck”)
In plain English: A herald is an official messenger who announces important news or events for a king or queen.
"The new manager was hailed as a herald of change for the struggling company."
Usage: Do not use "herald" as a noun to mean a long-tailed duck; that is an archaic spelling of "harle." Instead, use it only for a person or event that announces the approach of something significant.
foreshadow or presage
"The sudden frost last night heralded an early and harsh winter ahead."
To proclaim or announce an event.
"The bright fireworks served as a dramatic herald of the New Year's celebration."
In plain English: To herald something means to be a sign that it is coming soon.
"The new policy heralded a shift in how the company treats its employees."
Usage: Use "herald" to mean announcing something significant that serves as a warning or sign of what is to come, often with a sense of anticipation. It typically introduces major events rather than routine news.
A surname.
"The local newspaper featured an interview with Mr. Herald, whose family has lived in the valley for generations."
The word herald comes from the Old French heraut, which was borrowed into Middle English via Anglo-Norman to describe a royal messenger or trumpeter. Its roots trace back through Frankish and Proto-Germanic to a compound meaning "army leader," formed by combining elements for "army" and "strong."