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Forerunner (Noun)

Something that precedes and indicates the approach of something or someone.

Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.

The dark clouds were a forerunner of the impending storm that would soon engulf the city.
The scout was sent ahead as a forerunner to gather information about the enemy's position.
The early symptoms of the disease were a forerunner of the more severe complications that would follow.
The advance team was a forerunner of the main group, clearing the path and setting up camp.
The first hints of autumn were a forerunner of the cold winter months that would soon arrive.

Anything that precedes something similar in time; "phrenology was an antecedent of modern neuroscience".

Nouns denoting relations between people or things or ideas.

The early steam-powered locomotives were forerunners of the modern trains that revolutionized transportation.
The Wright brothers' glider was a forerunner of the powered aircraft that would change aviation history.
Phonographs were forerunners of modern record players and compact disc players.
The first Apple computer was a forerunner of the personal computers that would dominate the market.
The first electric cars of the late 19th century were forerunners of the modern electric vehicles that are gaining popularity today.

A person who goes before or announces the coming of another.

Nouns denoting people.

John the Baptist is often referred to as the forerunner of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith.
In the biblical account, Elijah was seen as a forerunner to the Messiah, preparing the way for his arrival.
The prophet Isaiah was considered a forerunner to the coming of Jesus, foretelling his birth and ministry.
Moses was seen as a forerunner to Jesus Christ, as both led their people out of bondage and into a promised land.
The apostle Paul referred to the Old Testament prophets as forerunners of Jesus Christ, whose writings foretold his coming.