Synonyms of foregroundnext
1
: the part of a scene or representation that is nearest to and in front of the spectator
Objects in the foreground seem larger than those in the background.
2
: a position of prominence : forefront
We want this issue to be in the foreground.
3
: a level of computer processing at which the processor responds immediately to input to a designated high-priority task compare background

foreground

2 of 2

verb

foregrounded; foregrounding; foregrounds

transitive verb

: to bring to the foreground
especially : to give prominence or emphasis to

Examples of foreground in a Sentence

Noun We want the issue to be in the foreground. Verb Public discussion has foregrounded the issue of health care. repeatedly foregrounded his experience in international affairs in the course of his campaign for the presidency
Recent Examples on the Web
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Noun
Tobacco features heavily, with traces of cedarwood and vanilla in the foreground. Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 25 Aug. 2026 Many are hoping that the conference will help propel the UNCCD more into the foreground. Justin Klawans, TheWeek, 19 Aug. 2026
Verb
Tatehata’s presentation foregrounded Kusama’s pioneering position in a New York art world transitioning from Abstract Expressionism to Minimalism and Pop, while also introducing her more recent work. Tessa Solomon For Artnews, Robb Report, 28 Aug. 2026 BePlain pairs mung bean seed extracts with niacinamide, glycerin and hyaluronic acid, Lee writes in a separate Allure piece; Medicube foregrounds collagen, squalene and niacinamide, per the New York Post’s Victoria McDonnell. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for foreground

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1695, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of foreground was in 1695

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Cite this Entry

“Foreground.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foreground. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

foreground

noun
fore·​ground
ˈfō(ə)r-ˌgrau̇nd
ˈfȯ(ə)r-
: the part of a scene or picture that is nearest to and in front of the viewer
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