a sign of the times
noun phrase
: something that shows the kinds of things that are happening, popular, important, etc., in a culture at a particular period in history
Having metal detectors in schools is a sign of the times.
Examples of a sign of the times in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In a sign of the times, the Netherlands’ far-right party, led by Geert Wilders, won the most votes in November.
—
Linda Robinson, Foreign Affairs, 3 July 2024
Perhaps a sign of the times, but some of the quieter moments that soften this hard look at life feel neglected.
—Matthew J. Palm, Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2024
This fixation on male superiority was a sign of the times not just in academia but in society at large.
—Cara Ocobock, Scientific American, 1 Nov. 2023
Beckham's collaboration called back to '90s-era fashion, and the on-court superstar joined for photos as a sign of the times gone by.
—Zoey Lyttle, Peoplemag, 3 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for a sign of the times 
Linda Robinson, Foreign Affairs, 3 July 2024
Perhaps a sign of the times, but some of the quieter moments that soften this hard look at life feel neglected.
—Matthew J. Palm, Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2024
This fixation on male superiority was a sign of the times not just in academia but in society at large.
—Cara Ocobock, Scientific American, 1 Nov. 2023
Beckham's collaboration called back to '90s-era fashion, and the on-court superstar joined for photos as a sign of the times gone by.
—Zoey Lyttle, Peoplemag, 3 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for a sign of the times
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'a sign of the times.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near a sign of the times
Cite this Entry
“A sign of the times.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/a%20sign%20of%20the%20times. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.
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