Meaning & Definition of word "Sign"

Sign

/saɪn/

noun:

  • 1. A gesture, action, or object that conveys meaning or represents something.
    • Example: The stop sign indicated that cars must come to a complete stop.
  • 2. A symbol or token that represents an idea, direction, or a specific thing.
    • Example: She held up a sign that read 'Welcome' at the entrance of the event.
  • 3. An indication of the existence or presence of something.
    • Example: The dark clouds were a sign that a storm was approaching.
  • 4. A symptom or indication of something, especially in medical contexts.
    • Example: Fever can be a sign of an infection.

verb:

  • 1. To write one's name on a document to indicate approval or agreement.
    • Example: Please sign the contract at the bottom before returning it.
  • 2. To make a gesture or motion that conveys a message.
    • Example: He signed to her that he would be late.
  • 3. To communicate something to another person using a sign language.
    • Example: She learned to sign so she could communicate with her deaf friend.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'signe', from Latin 'signum'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sign of the times:

An indication or reflection of the current state of affairs.

sign on the dotted line:

To officially agree to something by signing a document.

sign away:

To give up rights to something by signing a document.

sign of the zodiac:

A designation representing one's astrological sign.

Related Words

signature:

A person's name written in a distinctive way as a form of identification.

signal:

A gesture, action, or sound that is used to convey information.

indication:

A sign or piece of information that suggests something.

Slang Meanings of sign

Meaning: To sign off

Example Sentence: I'm going to sign off for the night.

Meaning: Sign in

Example Sentence: Don't forget to sign in when you arrive.