indication

American  

[in-di-key-shuhn] / ˌɪn dɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. anything serving to indicate or point out, as a sign or token.

   Synonyms:

   portent, intimation, hint

2. Medicine/Medical. a special symptom or the like that points out a suitable remedy or treatment or shows the presence of a disease.

3. an act of indicating.

4. the degree marked by an instrument.

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indication British  

/ ˌɪndɪˈkeɪʃən /

noun

1. something that serves to indicate or suggest; sign

   an indication of foul play

2. the degree or quantity represented on a measuring instrument or device

3. the action of indicating

4. something that is indicated as advisable, necessary, or expedient

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Other Word Forms

• reindication noun

Etymology

Origin of indication

First recorded in 1535–45, indication is from the Latin word indicātiōn- (stem of indicātiō ). See indicate, -ion

Explanation

An indication is a sign––it indicates, or suggests, some conclusion. The way you blush furiously when a certain someone talks to you is an indication that you have a crush on them. An indication is like a clue, or a suggestion, but it's not proof. If someone is weaving all over the place when they walk, that could be an indication that they’re drunk. But then again, it could indicate an inner-ear infection that has ruined their balance. The verb, indicate, literally means to point out, by using your index finger. But indications don’t require actual fingers pointing to a cause.

Example Sentences

The new retail sales report should give an indication of how higher gasoline prices have impacted consumer spending on other purchases.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

When HLB first began to spread, there was no indication it would be any worse than any other bug that had appeared over the years.

From Slate • Apr. 20, 2026

As for the latest arrest, it’s not clear what Augustine might have been doing with the pieces, but there’s no indication he was using them for creative play on his living room floor.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

U.S. provisional purchasing managers’ surveys for April, due Thursday, will give a more up-to-date indication of how the Middle East war uncertainty and energy-price increases have impacted activity in manufacturing and services.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

“I saw the article in the paper. Great piece. And if your progress this week is any indication, I have no doubt that you will be running again. Soon.”

From "The Running Dream" by Wendelin Van Draanen

Related Words

• explanation
• expression
• gesture
• hint
• implication
• inkling
• manifestation
• omen
• proof
• reminder
• sign
• signal
• suggestion
• symptom
• trace
• warning