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

It requires custodians at more than 400 sites to review signage, videos and even books and souvenirs, then report back to headquarters.

From Barron's • May 17, 2026

Once ubiquitous across mom-and-pop shops, handmade signage is now nearly nonexistent in an increasingly commercialized city, but thanks to the pair it continues to live on in Jackson Heights, Queens.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

It said leaflets, social media messages and signage would be used to help promote the ban which will also be backed up by the power to issue fixed penalty notices.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

“Employees must adhere to posted signage and communications,” she said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 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