Definition of "in the offing" []

• Within the area of the sea known as the offing; at a considerable distance from land, but visible from shore, often in reference to an approaching ship. (adjective)
• Soon to come; likely to happen; in the foreseeable future; projected to occur; on the horizon; in the wind. (adjective)
• At a distance, but visible. (adjective)

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• "Hereat we rejoiced and, ere an hour of the day had passed, the buildings showed plain in the offing and we asked the"