signal 1 of 3

Definition of signalnext
1
as in flag
an object intended to give public notice or warning stop signs are signals for vehicles to come to a full stop—not suggestions for slowing down, as some drivers seem to think

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2
as in gesture
a movement of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea or feeling quietly waiting for the signal to advance

Synonyms & Similar Words

signal

2 of 3

verb

as in to motion
to direct or notify by a movement or gesture signaled the oncoming traffic to stop while the wrecked car was being towed away

Synonyms & Similar Words

signal

3 of 3

adjective

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of signal
Noun
These are signals of a workforce under serious pressure and a talent model that no longer fits its purpose. Harpreet Sidhu, Fortune, 13 June 2026 The aroma of food simmering on the stove, for instance, can trigger the brain to send signals to the pancreas, which in turn releases insulin into the bloodstream. Isabella Backman, Hartford Courant, 12 June 2026
Verb
Lightshift said an additional eight battery storage projects are currently in advanced stages of development in Massachusetts, signaling continued investment in energy storage as utilities seek ways to manage rising power demand and grid costs. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 22 June 2026 Moments later, a gong signaled a fictional airport announcement informing guests that the scheduled flight to Butterlandia had been canceled and directed them to a Butter Baby check-in counter for a complimentary gift. Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for signal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for signal
Noun
  • People sold fans anything from juice to ice-cold water bottles, buttons, hats, T-shirts and flags.
    Amina Kilpatrick, NBC news, 19 June 2026
  • Beer was showered over the crowd, firecrackers set off and Mexican flags waved high in the sky against the setting sun.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • Many were disappointed that their families were not included in any kind of goodwill gesture.
    CBS News, CBS News, 21 June 2026
  • Reese won the first one with LSU while delivering a taunting gesture toward Clark along the way, but Clark and Iowa took the rematch in 2024.
    Terence Moore, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026
Verb
  • In video shared by the outlet, Stewart grips surfaces for support while singing before motioning to a crew member, who brings over an oxygen tank and places the mask over his nose and mouth.
    Mirna Alsharif, NBC news, 21 June 2026
  • The regular working-class crew heading home for the day filed onto her bus when a supervisor popped by the front door and motioned to two teen girls.
    Caitlin McGlade, Charlotte Observer, 2 June 2026
Adjective
  • Parts of the region visually resemble Lake Tahoe, thanks to gorgeous lakes, elevation changes, and a variety of excellent golf courses that are perpetually in outstanding condition.
    Scott Kramer, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026
  • There will be a lasting impact on economic growth as the country faces a long process resolving outstanding costs, according to analysts.
    Rebecca Schneid, Time, 21 June 2026
Noun
  • Police said there were no signs of trauma or foul play and homicide detectives are investigating.
    Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 June 2026
  • By the end of the meeting, however, signs of a compromise had emerged.
    Garrett Shanley, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • As recently as May, Tesla’s X account posted an ad showing drivers with their hands off the wheel, goofing off while waving their fingers in the air or sipping a hot coffee from a ceramic mug with two hands.
    Ashley Belanger, ArsTechnica, 22 June 2026
  • Argentina fans celebrated in the concourse of AT&T Stadium with roaring chants, flag waving and dancing.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • In 2014, he was selected to receive a lifetime achievement award for distinguished achievement in television direction from the Directors Guild of America.
    Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 19 June 2026
  • Patriotism And Nationalism Are Not Identical Political philosophers and historians have long distinguished patriotism from nationalism.
    Maia Niguel Hoskin, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026
Adjective
  • What that should lead to is Gable defeating Penta, one of the greatest lucha libre stars of all-time, for the prestigious Intercontinental Championship at SummerSlam.
    Blake Oestriecher, Forbes.com, 19 June 2026
  • The Life Ahead which represented a return to the screen for Ponti’s legendary mother, Sophia Loren who received Italy’s prestigious David di Donatello Award for Best Actress.
    Pete Hammond, Deadline, 19 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Signal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/signal. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

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