Precognition is the E.S.P. ability to sense the probable future or destined future. Precognition is the scientific term used for scientific studies of this phenomenon; in other contexts, sensing the future might be known as prophesy, the art of divination, or fortunetelling. Legitimate scientific studies of precognition have netted mixed results, not enough to prove or disprove it. However, precognition remains a popular psionic power in SF.

Pre`cog*ni"tion (?), n. [L. praecognitio, fr. praecognoscere to foreknow. See Pre-, and Cognition.]

1.

Previous cognition.

Fotherby.

2. ScotsLaw

A preliminary examination of a criminal case with reference to a prosecution.

Erskine.

 

© Webster 1913.