time signal

American  

noun

1. a signal sent electrically or by radio to indicate a precise moment of time as a means of checking or regulating timepieces.

---

time signal British  

noun

1. an announcement of the correct time, esp on radio or television

---

Etymology

Origin of time signal

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

In retrospect, that piece and one in 2017, where he built a coaster-track sculpture in the courtyard of a Venice palazzo and stood atop it for periods of time, signal an inflection point.

From New York Times • Oct. 21, 2022

That has led to worries that mismatched time signals could cause navigation problems, since even small errors in a time signal would mean positions being off by tens of metres.

From Economist • Jan. 12, 2012

His reliable time sources include the national radio time signal operated by NPL, which provides the time pips on the radio, and internet time servers.

From BBC • Jul. 22, 2011

In the program notes Mr. Davis writes that historically bells have been a “means of communication over distance — to mark time, signal alarm, announce celebration, call to prayer, etc.”

From New York Times • Feb. 23, 2011

Father always arrived a couple of hours before the time signal in order to visit the wholesalers who supplied him with watches and parts.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom