predictor

noun

Etymology: Etymology tree English predict Proto-Indo-European *-tōr Proto-Italic *-tōr Latin -tor Latin -ātor Old French -eorbor. Middle English -our ▲ Latin -torlbor. English -or English predictor From predict + -or.

1. Something that anticipates, predicts, or foretells.

   “The rainfall in April is a predictor for the number of mosquitoes in May.”

   “The predictor in the traffic-light control circuit tries to figure out how fast to change the lights.”

2. A predictor variable.
3. One who predicts.

   “THE only individual in this great city who has had a really easy time is the weather predictor; his only task from day to day has been to announce rain and gales, and through it all he has readily ranked as a prophet with honor in […]”

   “The “Annual Register” for 1809 contains an extract from a remarkable letter, dated Bath, April 2nd, in which the writer describes the effects of an extraordinary panic arising from a supposed prophecy of the end of the world. The account is headed “Bath Credulity,” and the writer states:—“[…] Some affirmed that Joanna Southcott was the predictor, others that it was a prophet now living at Midford, near this city, who was with Noah in the Ark, and has been travelling over various parts of the world ever since; but the greater part affixed the name of a female fortune-teller residing at Bath.[…],” etc.”