Meaning & use

bellwether

noun·Advanced

Last updated

Something that indicates or leads a trend; an early sign of what is to come.

See it in a sentence

This swing state has long been considered a bellwether in national elections.

Tech earnings are often seen as a bellwether for the broader economy.

A note on using this word

Originally referred to the lead sheep of a flock, which wore a bell so shepherds could track the group's movement.

Words with a similar meaning

indicatorforerunner

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