signals 1 of 2

Definition of signalsnext
plural of signal
1
as in flags
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 gestures
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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signals

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of signal
as in motions
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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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 signals
Noun
The group also used signals from what's known as an avalanche beacon, which allows skiers to send radio signals so they can be tracked by first responders. Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 20 Feb. 2026 Hamidreza Azizi, a visiting fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, said Shamkhani’s appointment signals that Iran is preparing for the possibility of a US decapitation strike – potentially targeting the Supreme Leader himself. Farida Elsebai, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026 Russian MiG-31 interceptors flew over Estonia for about 12 minutes with transponders – onboard devices that automatically respond to radar signals by transmitting an aircraft’s identity and altitude, enabling air traffic control and air defense systems to track it – switched off. Frederic Lemieux, Fortune, 19 Feb. 2026 BlueFly is a Bluetooth and Wi-Fi sensor that can be used on air and ground vehicles for search and rescue operations in challenging environments, providing authorities with a heat map to identify signals within a specific area, according to the company. Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026 They are treated as agents, entities capable of responding to signals, coordinating with others and adapting to context. Nathanael Bondu, Rolling Stone, 19 Feb. 2026 Your Heart Health May Be Supported Magnesium plays a key role in how electrical signals move through the heart and in the contraction of the heart muscle. Md Published, Verywell Health, 19 Feb. 2026 Across the city, more than 2,100 braille and tactile signs are installed at pedestrian crossings with signals, ensuring safer navigation. Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 19 Feb. 2026 By tracking how those signals curved through Jupiter’s atmosphere, the team created detailed maps of temperature and density across the planet. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 5 Feb. 2026
Verb
From the gracious foyer to the expansive living room with horizonless views, every detail signals residential grandeur. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Feb. 2026 The statement on his Truth Social platform signals new transparency on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), meaning unexplained observations in the sky, an issue that has drawn Washington’s attention for years. Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 20 Feb. 2026 The enhanced dexterity shown in routines like aerial flips and weapon handling signals strong potential for economic impact in physically demanding tasks that involve delicate tool handling and precise movements. Dylan Butts,matthew Chin, CNBC, 20 Feb. 2026 This information often signals confidence, especially at times when network usage spikes and the Ethereum price appreciates. Ethan M. Stone, Ascend Agency, 20 Feb. 2026 The name signals that this gecko is unmistakably its own entity. Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 20 Feb. 2026 While a yellow placard signals two or more major violations. Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado february 20, Sacbee.com, 20 Feb. 2026 Nvidia’s deal with Meta signals a new era in computing power. Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 19 Feb. 2026 Anxiety that signals a coming heart attack will also be accompanied by other physical symptoms. Nadine Avola, Flow Space, 19 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for signals
Noun
  • After the rain-sleet mix, these elite, professional drivers crashed and brought out yellow flags 10 times.
    Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 15 Feb. 2026
  • Heed the advice of lifeguards, beach patrol, flags and signs.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 15 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • However, the rich subtext of its casting adds a whole new layer that often promises to supersede these self-reflexive gestures.
    Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Even small gestures—bringing in greenery, using textures that feel organic—can completely change how a space feels.
    Kathy Barnes, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Below, our bed bug experts detail how to recognize the earliest signs of a pest problem, the different types of available treatments, and top tips for preventing bed bugs from ever crossing your bedroom's threshold.
    Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 16 Feb. 2026
  • Nonetheless, people often laugh about how well astrological signs describe people born under them.
    Kathy Kristof, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Every now and again, a brand-new book waves its knowing hand.
    Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 11 Feb. 2026
  • Dancer Natalie Reid approaches to take the barstool beside her, but Swift waves her away because the seat is reserved for her stone.
    Bryan West, USA Today, 6 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Signals.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/signals. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

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