sign 1 of 2

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

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sign

2 of 2

noun

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

2
as in symbol
a written or printed mark that is meant to convey information to the reader an "and" sign

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

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 sign
Verb
Julian Reese, the former forward for the Maryland Terrapins, was signed as an undrafted free agent to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday following the two NBA Draft rounds in prior days. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 29 June 2025 The Warriors did not sign Kuminga to an extension last offseason, with the forward reportedly declining a 5-year, $150 million deal. Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 28 June 2025
Noun
Dobson, who signed a max-term deal with a $9.5 million cap hit as part of a sign-and-trade to the Canadiens, has proven himself an explosive right-shot defenseman, especially on the power play. Rob Rossi, New York Times, 28 June 2025 Choose salmon that looks moist as this is a sign of freshness. Stacey Lastoe, Southern Living, 28 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sign
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sign
Verb
  • Snap a photo of your kids with each character that autographs their book, then use a glue stick, tape, or stickers to place the photo right on the page with the autograph.
    Terri Peters, Parents, 16 June 2025
  • At intermission, a cluster of fans, speaking in excited bursts of Creole French, started moving toward the stage, holding out papers to be autographed.
    Reya Hart, The Atlantic, 15 June 2025
Noun
  • Even neutral or well-meaning gestures are perceived as selfish, passive-aggressive or hostile.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
  • They can be trained effectively using visual signals like hand gestures, along with touch cues.
    Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • This was not just a strike on a symbol of repression.
    Siamak Namazi, Time, 25 June 2025
  • The film captures the powerful spirit of activism and collectivity that make the fandom a symbol of hope and unity.
    Joan MacDonald, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
Verb
  • The script was penned by Park, Lee Kyoung-mi, Don McKellar and Jahye Lee.
    Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 27 June 2025
  • More than 200 musicians, including Billie Eilish and J Balvin, penned an April letter speaking out against the use of AI, such as voice cloning, in the music industry.
    Solcyré Burga, Time, 27 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sign.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sign. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

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