signifier

noun

sig·​ni·​fi·​er ˈsig-nə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

1

: one that signifies

2

: a symbol, sound, or image (such as a word) that represents an underlying concept or meaning compare signified

Examples of signifier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Indeed, Fortunato was struck that none of the emerging designers employed logos on their designs, though their products were clearly identifiable via other signifiers. —Miles Socha, Footwear News, 9 Dec. 2025

But with the hindsight of the 2025 campaign, it is filled with signifiers, the emergence from the TV to dazzle the local villagers a portent of a savvy politician who got elected by stepping away from the screen to meet physically with voters. —Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 5 Dec. 2025

Backxwash, Only Dust Remains Death is ever present in the work of Montreal rapper and producer Backxwash, from face-paint gesturing to Zambian communal ceremonies to tense riffs summoning extreme metal signifiers. —Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 2 Dec. 2025

Meanwhile, Russian and Belarusian teams – such as in ice hockey – will face a blanket ban from competition, while any national signifiers, such as flags, will be prohibited at Olympic venues. —Amanda Davies, CNN Money, 27 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for signifier

• amplifier
• clarifier
• classifier
• gasifier
• magnifier
• modifier
• multiplier
• occupier
• pacifier
• purifier
• qualifier
• quantifier