1. something that indicates what will happen in the future; a factor used to forecast or estimate future outcomes

Examples

• Past performance is often considered a good predictor of future success.
• High school grades are strong predictors of college achievement.
• Weather satellites serve as predictors for storm patterns.
• Economic indicators can be predictors of market trends.
• The test scores were reliable predictors of job performance.
• Scientists use various predictors to forecast climate change effects.