1 aforethought | Definition of aforethought
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aforethought

adjective
afore·​thought | \ -ˌthȯt How to pronounce aforethought (audio) \

Definition of aforethought

: previously in mind : premeditated, deliberate with malice aforethought

Examples of aforethought in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 Armando Iannucci’s absurdist comedy reveals this in an extremely loose manner of speaking, with malice aforethought, straight-faced glee and formidable sharpshooting that occasionally misfires. — Joe Morgenstern, WSJ, "‘The Death of Stalin’ Review: Laughing in the Graveyard of History," 8 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'aforethought.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of aforethought

15th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for aforethought

afore + thought, past participle of think entry 1, probably as Anglicization of prepense

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More Definitions for aforethought

aforethought

adjective
How to pronounce aforethought (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of aforethought

: thought about or planned beforehand

See the full definition for aforethought in the English Language Learners Dictionary

aforethought

adjective
afore·​thought | \ ə-ˈfōr-ˌthȯt How to pronounce aforethought (audio) \

Legal Definition of aforethought

: previously in mind : premeditated

More from Merriam-Webster on aforethought

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with aforethought

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