sign of the times

an event, action, etc., that reveals an important trend in the culture, economy, or environment: I’m seeing a lot more cyclists on my commute—must be a sign of the times, or maybe just gas prices.The people I talk to don’t see these layoffs as a reflection on the company, but rather a sign of the times.

Christianity. an event that seems to fulfill prophecy, especially prophecy relating to the Judgment or the return of Jesus Christ: In his book about life in the last days before the Second Coming, he lists many signs of the times apparent in our generation.