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Definition of signal

signal

/ˈsɪɡ.nəl/
sig · nal

Adverb:signally
•
Plural:signals
•
Past Simple:signaled
•
Past Participle:signaled
•
Present Participle:signaling
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signal Lexical Profile

signal Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A gesture, action, or sound that is used to convey information or instructions, typically by prearrangement.

Example

"The referee blew his whistle as a signal to start the match."


2

An electrical or electromagnetic current, wave, or impulse used to transmit data, audio, or video.

Example

"We couldn't make a phone call because the cellular signal was too weak in the mountains."


3

An event or statement that serves as the catalyst or stimulus for a specific action or reaction.

Example

"The sudden drop in housing prices was a clear signal of an impending economic downturn."

Synonyms
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• verb

1

To transmit information, instructions, or intent by means of a gesture, action, or sound.

Example

"The driver signaled left before turning into the busy intersection."


2

To indicate the existence, occurrence, or onset of something.

Example

"The treaty signaled a new era of cooperation between the two neighboring nations."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for signal

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'signal', borrowed from Old French 'signal', stemming from Medieval Latin 'signalis' (pertaining to a sign), ultimately from Latin 'signum' (mark, token, sign).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Signal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/signal
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