Synonyms of sign

sign 1 of 2

verb

as in to autograph

to write one's name on (as a document)

you'll have to sign the contract for it to be legal

Synonyms & Similar Words

• autograph
• pen
• ink
• register
• subscribe
• author
• endorse
• scribble
• countersign
• indorse
• sign up
• sign on
• inscribe
• pencil (in)
• cosign
• scrawl
• scratch (out)
• notarize

sign

2 of 2

noun

ˈsīn 

1

as in gesture

a movement of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea or feeling

made a sign for the audience to be quiet

Synonyms & Similar Words

• gesture
• signal
• wave
• posture
• gesticulation
• mime
• indication
• pantomime
• motion
• shrug
• body language
• beck
• sign language
• flourish
• beckon

2

as in symbol

a written or printed mark that is meant to convey information to the reader

an "and" sign

Synonyms & Similar Words

• symbol
• letter
• glyph
• icon
• character
• ikon
• numeral
• cipher
• hieroglyph
• pictograph
• pictogram
• rune
• ideogram

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sign distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of sign are mark, note, symptom, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

When is it sensible to use mark instead of sign?

The words mark and sign are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When could note be used to replace sign?

The synonyms note and sign are sometimes interchangeable, but note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

Where would symptom be a reasonable alternative to sign?

While the synonyms symptom and sign are close in meaning, symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

When can token be used instead of sign?

While in some cases nearly identical to sign, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of sign

Verb

In addition, there’s a post-credits scene that features the young version of Sammie signing a song, which, like the mid-credits scene, doesn’t serve as a springboard for a sequel. —Tim Lammers, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025

Trump signed another executive order that forced all federal employees who work remotely to return the office. —Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 18 Apr. 2025

Noun

Some of the reasons for higher home prices aren’t necessarily a sign that anything has gone wrong. —Caleb Petitt, National Review, 29 Apr. 2025

Suggested Reading Big Tech's moment of truth is here There's a sign the restaurant recession is already here Amazon says its Temu competitor 'considered' showing tariff charges that raised White House ire Consumers continued to be in a dour mood over the past month. —Kevin Williams, Quartz, 29 Apr. 2025

Phrases Containing sign

• Indian sign
• sign (up or on)
• sign on (for)
• sign up (for)