signal

[sig-nl]

noun

1. anything that serves to indicate, warn, direct, command, or the like, such as a light, a gesture, an act, etc.: a signal to leave.

   a traffic signal;

   a signal to leave.

   Synonyms: sign

2. anything agreed upon or understood as the occasion for concerted action.

3. an act, event, or the like that causes or incites some action.

   The unjust execution was the signal for revolt.

4. a token; indication.

   Synonyms: sign

5. Electronics.,  an electrical quantity or effect, as current, voltage, or electromagnetic waves, that can be varied in such a way as to convey information.

6. Cards.,  a play that reveals to one's partner a wish that they continue or discontinue the suit led.

adjective

1. serving as a token or indication; used in communiating an intention, warning, or command.

   a signal flag.

2. unusual; notable; outstanding.

   a signal exploit.

   Synonyms: striking, remarkable, exceptional, unique

verb (used with object)

signaled, signaling , signalled, signalling .

1. to make a token or indication to.

2. to communicate or make known by a token or indication.

verb (used without object)

signaled, signaling , signalled, signalling .

1. to make communication by something that serves to indicate, warn, direct, command, or the like.

signal

/ ˈsɪɡnəl /

noun

1. any sign, gesture, token, etc, that serves to communicate information

2. anything that acts as an incitement to action

   the rise in prices was a signal for rebellion

3. 1. a variable parameter, such as a current or electromagnetic wave, by which information is conveyed through an electronic circuit, communications system, etc

   2. the information so conveyed

   3. ( as modifier )

      signal strength

      a signal generator

adjective

1. distinguished or conspicuous

2. used to give or act as a signal

verb

1. to communicate (a message, etc) to (a person)

signal

1. A fluctuating quantity or impulse whose variations represent information. The amplitude or frequency of voltage, current, electric field strength, light, and sound can be varied as signals representing information.

Other Word Forms

• signaler noun
• presignal noun
• resignal verb
• unsignaled adjective
• unsignalled adjective
• signaller noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of signal¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English noun from Old French seignal, signal, from Medieval Latin signāle, Late Latin, noun use of neuter of signālis “of a sign”; sign, -al ², -al ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of signal¹

C16: from Old French seignal, from Medieval Latin signāle, from Latin signum _sign

Example Sentences

The CEOs of Alphabet, Meta and X all sat in the front row for his inauguration, signalling a shift in relations between the Republican Party and the tech sector.

From BBC

With these sentences China is signalling its determination to deal harshly with the scam business on its border.

From BBC

But he also signaled that he’s trying to strike a balance between addressing safety concerns and ensuring California tech companies continue to dominate in AI.

From Los Angeles Times

"We're going to win the league" echoed around this great old atmospheric stadium - optimism taken to the extreme perhaps, but a clear signal of just how good this Palace side is.

From BBC

But their proponents argue the kneeling was a tactic to reduce tensions with protesters, rather than signalling that the agents agreed with their views.

From BBC

Related Words

• alarm 
• beacon 
• cue 
• gesture 
• indicator 
• sign