signpost

[ sahyn-pohst ]

noun

1. a post bearing a sign that gives information or guidance.
2. any immediately perceptible indication, obvious clue, etc.

verb (used with object)

1. to provide (a place, route, etc.) with signposts.

signpost

/ ˈsaɪnˌpəʊst /

noun

1. a post bearing a sign that shows the way, as at a roadside
2. something that serves as a clue or indication; sign

verb

1. to mark with signposts
2. to indicate direction towards

   the camp site is signposted from the road

Word History and Origins

Origin of signpost¹

First recorded in 1610–20; sign + post ¹

Example Sentences

These electrodes allowed researchers to monitor the brain activity that corresponded to Sarah’s depression symptoms — a pattern that the researchers could use as a biomarker, a signpost of trouble to come.

From Science News

Ultimately, we have forgotten that the land beneath us connects us all, the signposts that catalyse community transformation.

From Washington Blade

While there are 172 English Heritage blue plaques dotted around the borough, there is no signpost commemorating the WASU on any of its former London premises.

From Quartz

The mural has been brought back to its former glory as a gateway signpost welcoming passersby into the commercial and residential district.

From Washington Blade

Titanic had moved the signpost five miles closer that morning.

From The Daily Beast

And his machinations with the judiciary, the signpost of his cynicism, are bound to be aborted.

From The Daily Beast

People had begun leaving flowers and candles and stuffed animals at the base of the signpost.

From The Daily Beast

Since AIDS first was described, the CD4 cell count has been the clinical signpost that guided doctors and patients.

From The Daily Beast

His blog that used to reflect such passion and turmoil had become a mere signpost, “James Foley Currently Detained in Tripoli.”

From The Daily Beast

And then they came upon a fork in the road with a white signpost shining in the moonlight.

From Project Gutenberg

Beside Claygate Lane, where the signpost points to Hook, there is a withybed which is a favourite cover for hares.

From Project Gutenberg

Knights, if I had known you would have let this covey of partridges sit thus long upon their knees under my signpost.

From Project Gutenberg

But, for that matter, it's placarded all over Plymouth and at every public and forge and signpost along the road.

From Project Gutenberg

Finally we saw a signpost just ahead, and we thought that would surely solve our problem.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• emblem
• logo
• notice
• placard
• proof
• type
• warning