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
Ham radio operators around Hawaii may have noticed a loss of signal at frequencies below 25 MHz, according to spaceweather.com. Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 19 June 2025 Proponents argue that targeting these experts may undermine a state’s efforts, deter it from continuing nuclear developments and signal to others the perils of supporting nuclear proliferation. Jenna Jordan, The Conversation, 19 June 2025
Verb
Trump can bring energy prices back under control by continuing to restart pipeline projects, reopen federal lands for responsible production, and signal that American energy is open for business again. Andrew Langer, Boston Herald, 21 June 2025 Switch on headlights - Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for signal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for signal
Noun
  • For days, a small but critical faction of the Senate GOP conference had been raising major flags about the way this cut to states' Medicaid revenue might kneecap rural hospitals in their states.
    Allison Pecorin, ABC News, 26 June 2025
  • Last year, he was arrested for joining with two accomplices in setting fire to American and Israeli flags outside the Israeli Consulate in Midtown.
    Nicholas Williams, New York Daily News, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • Even neutral or well-meaning gestures are perceived as selfish, passive-aggressive or hostile.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
  • This grand gesture brought national attention to Lee’s fight to bring recognition to Juneteenth.
    Bea L. Hines, Miami Herald, 19 June 2025
Verb
  • The sitter motioned with her hands for the Sheltie to come with her to go outside.
    Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 June 2025
  • Morris also motioned for Gateway attorney David Middlebrook to be removed from the case.
    Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 May 2025
Adjective
  • Bregman is an outstanding defensive third baseman, which is the position Devers had played during his nine season tenure with the Red Sox.
    Bernie Pleskoff, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025
  • The 50-year-old British soccer legend was awarded a knighthood along with Oscar winner Gary Oldman and The Who frontman Roger Daltrey in Charles' birthday honors list, which recognizes individual outstanding achievements and contributions to British society.
    Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 14 June 2025
Noun
  • According to celebrities, there are already signs of the silhouettes will reign supreme.
    Christian Allaire, Vogue, 16 June 2025
  • Both pursuits satisfy our craving for signs of humanity in a being thought to be divine.
    S. C. Cornell, New Yorker, 16 June 2025
Verb
  • Falling water can produce electricity via hydropower, and moving ocean water can produce electricity via tidal or wave power.
    Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 15 June 2025
  • Maya and Sam Rivers brought their almost 2-year-old daughter to the west steps, one of several children playing in the grass, some waving flags.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 15 June 2025
Adjective
  • The Fragrance Foundation proudly recognized Leonard for his distinguished accomplishments both as the Hall of Fame Honoree in 1990 and as the inaugural honoree in 2000 for the first ever Circle of Champions.
    Jenny B. Fine, Footwear News, 17 June 2025
  • But as three generations of the beautiful, distinguished Sinclair family converge on their private summer utopia, no one is talking – not even The Liars, Cadence's childhood best friends.
    Billie Melissa, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 June 2025
Adjective
  • Because of these promising results, the device is trusted by thousands of prestigious institutions worldwide and has helped to restore and regrow billions of hairs.
    Nia Bowers, USA Today, 17 June 2025
  • With a social scene that is always one step ahead of residents, New Canaan may finally drop its prestigious reputation.
    Slade Logsdon, Hartford Courant, 17 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Signal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/signal. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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