v. Obs. Also for-. [f. FOR- pref.1 or FORE- pref. + SHIELD v.] trans. To ward off, avert; only in asseverations, as God forshield (that …): = FORFEND 2.
a. 1549. Murning Maidin, xv.
| That I you sla, that God forscheild! | |
| Quhat have I done, or said, yow till? |
1562–83. Foxe, A. & M. (1583), 1583. God foreshield that I should so do, for then I should lose my soul.
1663. Cowley, Cutter of Coleman St., V. x. Wid. Marry, Heav’n fore-shield!
