signal 1 of 3

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

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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

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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
Not just as a matter of technical FX movement, but as a signal of political ambition, shifting global sentiment, and increasing systemic risk. Carrie McCabe, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025 Among the methods being examined: Using radio signals to jam drones or force them to land. CBS News, 21 Apr. 2025
Verb
Roster limits could signal the end of the walk-on athlete in college sports and, as Utah freshman swimmer Gannon Flynn noted in his testimony as an objector, also imperil smaller sports programs that feed the U.S. Olympic teams. Eric Olson, Baltimore Sun, 23 Apr. 2025 Black smoke appearing from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel signals an inconclusive vote, while white smoke announces a new Pope has been elected. Ross Rosenfeld, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for signal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for signal
Noun
  • This week's quiz highlights equestrian events, flag facts, famous food — and a lot more.
    Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2025
  • Trump also directed that U.S. flags be flown at half-staff in Francis’ honor.
    Darlene Superville, Los Angeles Times, 26 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Pope Francis has died, and as the tributes pour in — from presidents, cardinals and columnists — the world pauses to remember a man who led with gestures more than grandeur.
    Jack Hill, Baltimore Sun, 23 Apr. 2025
  • Garfield was an actor known for his wide range, capable of a disarming naturalness and with a capacity for carefully nuanced gestures.
    Leo Barraclough, Variety, 23 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The Colorado Buffaloes head coach raised his hand and motioned in the air before taking a sip of his water bottle in the clip, shared by uStadium on X. After Shedeur's draft party, Deion posted a video of his son addressing guests with a humble message.
    Natasha Dye, People.com, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Fuhrer voted against accepting the report and motioned to rescind the resolution supervisors approved in December, which censured Fuhrer and came with a suite of actions, including blocking him from becoming board chair.
    Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Her thirty-five-year corporate journey has been marked by outstanding achievement and transformative influence.
    Mamie Jones, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Although single motherhood was challenging, Henson has a moving story and created an outstanding life for herself despite the odds.
    Essence, Essence, 28 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Additionally, self-care can sometimes be a sign of confidence and longevity, rather than simply personal maintenance.
    Rhiannon Frater, USA Today, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Talks are ongoing between the U.S. and teams from Kyiv and Moscow, but Washington threatened last week to quit negotiations if there was no imminent signs of compromise.
    Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 29 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Elon Musk waving around a chain saw was more than an instantly viral moment.
    Jonathan Swan, New York Times, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Overjoyed in the moment, Rumi happily waved at the crowd and even gave her mother several hugs throughout the set, visually leaving the global icon swoon.
    Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 29 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The research was designed to capture a look at much of the world, said study lead and report contributor Dr. Byron Johnson, distinguished professor of the social sciences at Baylor in Waco, Texas.
    Madeline Holcombe, CNN Money, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Only this season for Valladolid has proved anything but distinguished.
    Henry Flynn, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Harassment, fear alter campus life As prestigious universities like Harvard became a focal point of outside scrutiny last year, external harassment had devastating effects on students, the report says.
    Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 30 Apr. 2025
  • While performance in European competition has propelled them into financial parity with Scandinavia’s biggest clubs, there’s an acceptance that when players shine, there will be interest from more affluent and prestigious sides.
    Elias Burke, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Signal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/signal. Accessed 5 May. 2025.

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