signage

American  

[sahy-nij] / ˈsaɪ nɪdʒ /

noun

1. graphic designs, as symbols, emblems, or words, used especially for identification or as a means of giving directions or warning.

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signage British  

/ ˈsaɪnɪdʒ /

noun

1. signs collectively, esp street signs or signs giving directions

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Etymology

Origin of signage

sign + -age

Explanation

Signage is a word for a bunch of signs, just like gaggle is a word for a bunch of geese. If someone asks, "Did you see the signage?" they're not asking about one particular sign, because signage refers to more than one sign. This usually refers to commercially oriented signs, like the ones on billboards. Signage is a collective noun, so it stands for more than one thing, even though it doesn't end in an "s." Other collective nouns are luggage and tonnage, which refer to more than one bag and ton, respectfully.

Example Sentences

In 2019, it was fined after a French-speaking couple complained that some signage on a domestic flight appeared only in English.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Outside the venue, a double-decker bus was parked with signage advertising the LP, which is called “The Boys of Dungeon Lane” after a road in his Liverpool hometown.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 2026

He and his team of around two dozen, which is independent of the government, are developing kits with guides, signage and registration forms to enable local groups to operate shelters until authorities can take over.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Facilities and shops in the station will be closed, with barriers and signage marking the exclusion zone.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

For a few seconds, I’m disoriented by the businesses stacked high on top of each other with Korean signage until I remember that we’re in Koreatown.

From "The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon