What does herald mean?
A herald is an official charged with making important public announcements, especially at royal, civic, or ceremonial occasions. The word also has a literary use for someone or something that signals an approaching event: a favorable sign may be called a herald of spring or peace. As a verb, herald means to announce or signal the arrival or beginning of something, often with a sense of importance or transformation. Phrases such as heralding a new era suggest a significant development rather than a routine piece of news. Although the noun's historical sense is institutional and specific, the verb and figurative noun uses are now common in journalism, public relations, and formal writing. The word combines a practical historical function with broader figurative meanings associated with publicity, anticipation, and official announcements.
An official whose role is to make formal public announcements, especially at royal, civic, or ceremonial settings; by extension, a person or thing regarded as announcing an approaching event.
"The herald called for silence before the procession entered."
The literal sense is chiefly associated with ceremonial and official settings; the figurative sense is literary and common in expressions such as a herald of spring.
To announce publicly or to signal the arrival or beginning of something, often in a formal or celebratory context.
"The company heralded the launch of its new technology."
Often used with launches, changes, eras, and significant developments.
The standard plural of the noun is heralds.
"The heralds announced the ceremony's commencement."
From announcing royal messages to heralding a new era, herald has long made beginnings feel official.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does herald come from?
Herald entered Middle English from Old French heraut, a term ultimately derived from a Germanic word associated with an army commander or official who made proclamations. In English, the word developed from the ceremonial messenger or announcer into both the modern noun and verb. Its derivatives heraldic and heraldry refer respectively to coats of arms and the formal study or practice of designing and displaying them.
Related word forms
How herald is actually used
The word is formal and often ceremonial in tone. As a noun, it commonly refers to a court or civic official, while its more literary use for a harbinger or sign of what is to come is somewhat figurative.