token

sign, mark, token, note, symptom 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

mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

• • a mark of a good upbringing

token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

• • this gift is a token of our esteem

note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

• • a note of irony in her writing

symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

• • rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay