sign of the times

American  

[sahyn uhv thuh tahymz] / ˈsaɪn əv ðə ˈtaɪmz /

idiom

1. 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.

2. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of sign of the times

First recorded in 1520–30

Example Sentences

But she knows it’s a sign of the times.

From Slate • Dec. 22, 2025

Still, the car tax’s resurfacing as an issue is a sign of the times, Rozell added, as it’s yet another expense for cost-conscious voters.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 4, 2025

In an eerie sign of the times, several Reddit users claimed to have watched Miller fall on a TikTok live-stream.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 2, 2025

Being tired is linked to something deeper than just overwork or a sign of the times.

From Salon • Jan. 16, 2025

From seminary to corrections academy: a sign of the times.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover