plural beacons
1
: a strong light that can be seen from far away and that is used to help guide ships, airplanes, etc.
2
: a radio signal that is broadcast to help guide ships, airplanes, etc.
a radio beacon
3
: someone or something (such as a country) that guides or gives hope to others
These countries are beacons of democracy.
Our nation should be a beacon of/for peace to people around the world.
This new medicine is a beacon of hope for/to thousands of people. [=this new medicine gives hope to thousands of people]
4
in the past
: a fire built on a hill and used as a signal
Cite this Entry
“Beacon.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/beacon. Accessed 13 Apr. 2026.
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