noun

predictor

prih-DIK-ter/prɪˈdɪktər/

Someone or something used to forecast an outcome.

The gathering storm clouds serve as a predictor of rain over the dry field.

Dark storm clouds gathering over a still-dry field serve as a visible predictor of approaching rain.

Etymology

preLatinbefore

+dictLatinto say

+orLatinone that does

A predictor is a “sayer beforehand,” or foreteller. The term can name not just a person but also a sign, factor, or tool that supplies advance information about an outcome.

In context

Prof. Sam Vaknin10:11

past behavior is the best predictor of what you're going to do in the future

How to Love Yourself Into Healing, But Not Become a Narcissist (Compilation)

More examples

Past sales are not always reliable predictors of future demand.
Even a skilled predictor cannot foresee every market change.
Researchers test the new predictor against actual storm paths.

Forms

predictor · predictors

predict verb — To say what will happen later.

prediction noun — A statement about a likely future outcome.

Similar words

forecaster: Usually a person or system that actively makes predictions.
indicator: Provides a clue, but does not necessarily forecast an outcome.