signal
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1sig·nal
noun \ˈsig-nəl\Definition of SIGNAL
1
: sign, indication
2
a : an act, event, or watchword that has been agreed on as the occasion of concerted action b : something that incites to action
3
: something (as a sound, gesture, or object) that conveys notice or warning
4
a : an object used to transmit or convey information beyond the range of human voice b : the sound or image conveyed in telegraphy, telephony, radio, radar, or television c : a detectable physical quantity or impulse (as a voltage, current, or magnetic field strength) by which messages or information can be transmitted
See Examples of SIGNAL
- He likes her but he is sending the wrong signals with his constant teasing.
- The teacher gave us the signal to finish what we were working on and hand in our tests.
- Faulty wiring in the train station caused a signal to malfunction.
Origin of SIGNAL
Middle English, from Medieval Latin signale, from Late Latin, neuter of signalis of a sign, from Latin signum
First Known Use: 14th century
2signal
verbsig·naled or sig·nalledsig·nal·ing or sig·nal·ling \-nə-liŋ\
Definition of SIGNAL
transitive verb
1
: to notify by a signal <signal the fleet to turn back>
2
a : to communicate or indicate by or as if by signals <signaled the end of an era> b : to constitute a characteristic feature of (a meaningful linguistic form)
intransitive verb
: to make or send a signal
— sig·nal·er or sig·nal·ler noun
Examples of SIGNAL
- Robins signal the arrival of spring.
- The election results surely signal the start of a new era.
- A lock on the suitcase might signal that there's something of value inside.
- Did he signal before he made the left turn?
- They signaled at me to come over to their table.
- He signaled us that it was time to begin the meeting.
- The umpire signaled a strike.
First Known Use of SIGNAL
1805
3signal
adjectiveDefinition of SIGNAL
: distinguished from the ordinary : notable <a signal achievement>
Examples of SIGNAL
- Is he worthy of such a signal honor?
- <the Louisiana Purchase is cited by many historians as one of the most signal events in American history>
Origin of SIGNAL
modification of French signalé, past participle of signaler to distinguish, from Old Italian segnalare to signal, distinguish, from segnale signal, from Medieval Latin signale
First Known Use: 1627
Related to SIGNAL
- Synonyms
- astral, bright, distinguished, illustrious, luminous, noble, notable, noteworthy, outstanding, preeminent, prestigious, redoubtable, eminent, star, superior
Learn More About SIGNAL
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: signal board
Previous Word in the Dictionary: signage
All Words Near: signal
Previous Word in the Dictionary: signage
All Words Near: signal
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up signal? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
