future (noun). This term may refer to any of the following:
1. The period of time following the present moment and continuing on indefinitely. "The polar ice caps may shrink in the future."
2. The situation or condition of someone or something in the future. "The future of biotechnology looks bright."
3. One of a plurality of possible future conditions or situations. These are sometimes described as alternative futures or just futures. For instance, three futures may be envisioned for the giant pandas: extinction, revival in the natural environment, or domestication and continued existence in zoos and private preserves.