sign of the times

[sahyn uhv thuh tahymz]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sign of the times¹

First recorded in 1520–30

Example Sentences

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

The deal is also a sign of the times.

From BBC

Dan Ives, an analyst at financial services firm Wedbush Securities, said Amazon’s decision to change its subscription policy is a “sign of the times.”

From Los Angeles Times

“It is a sign of the times. The latest evidence of how the foundations of equal representation and voting rights are being eroded. The political system is teetering and there is no clear end in sight to the partisan struggle for power in the United States.”

From Salon

The trailer, which progresses through an intense montage set to Harry Styles’ “Sign of the Times,” teases Gosling’s signature humor.

From Los Angeles Times