harbinger
HAR-bin-jernounMeaning a sign or messenger of what is coming
Memory hook HARK! A sign of what’s coming. “Hark! Spring is on its way!” says the first butterfly over the melting snow; it is a harbinger of spring.
The first crocus poking through the snow is a harbinger of spring.
In context The sudden silence of the birds was a harbinger of the storm; within minutes, the sky turned dark and the rain began.
Similar herald, sign, omen, forerunner
From Middle English herbergere, a person sent ahead to find lodgings for travelers.