indicator

The word “indicator” means something that shows or points to a condition, trend, or measurement. In plain terms, something that points to or measures a condition — could be an economic figure, a gauge, or (in the UK) a car's turn signal.

“Indicator” is pronounced IHN-dih-kay-tuh (/ˈɪn.dɪˌkeɪ.tə(ɹ)/ in IPA).

Here is “indicator” used in a sentence: “GDP growth is a key economic indicator.”

“Indicator” is a noun.

The word “indicator” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin indicator, "one who points out," from indicare, "to indicate.".

“Indicator” is a fairly common word in modern English.

“Indicator” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: something that shows or points to a condition, trend, or measurement.

An indicator is the thing, device, or measure that points to a condition or trend, such as a gauge, dial, or statistic. An indication is the sign, hint, or piece of evidence itself. In short, an indicator gives you an indication.

In UK English, an indicator is the flashing light on a vehicle used to signal a turn or a change of lane. American English usually calls the same light a turn signal or a blinker.

A leading indicator changes before a wider trend does, so it is used to anticipate what may happen next. A lagging indicator changes after a trend is already underway, confirming it. Both are common in economics and business.

Common collocations include economic indicator, key indicator, performance indicator, and warning indicator. In data and management, a measurable target is often called a key performance indicator, or KPI.