The term "foreshadowing" refers to a literary device used by authors to give hints or clues about what will happen later in a story. It's a way for writers to build anticipation or create suspense, allowing readers to pick up on signals that suggest future events in the plot.
The word "foreshadowing" is derived from the prefix "fore-" meaning "before" and the word "shadow," which in this context implies a hint or indication of something to come. It combines elements from Old English and modern usage to convey the idea of presenting an advance warning or suggestion.