signal
14 synonyms and 1 antonyms for signal, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Something transmitted or displayed that conveys information, such as a light, sound, or electrical impulse.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use signal
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French segnal and Late Latin signalis, from Latin signum ("sign").
Full origin of signal →Frequently asked questions
What does “signal” mean?
The word “signal” means something transmitted or displayed that conveys information, such as a light, sound, or electrical impulse. In plain terms, information sent through a channel (light, sound, radio waves), or, as a verb, to indicate something is happening.
How do you pronounce “signal”?
“Signal” is pronounced SIHG-nuhl (/ˈsɪɡnəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “signal” in a sentence?
Here is “signal” used in a sentence: “The ship sent a distress signal by radio.”
What is the opposite of “signal”?
The opposite of “signal” — its antonyms — is noise.
What part of speech is “signal”?
Depending on how it is used, “signal” can be a noun, a verb and an adjective.
Where does the word “signal” come from?
The word “signal” comes from Late Latin. From Old French segnal and Late Latin signalis, from Latin signum ("sign").
Is “signal” a common word?
“Signal” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “signal” have?
“Signal” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: something transmitted or displayed that conveys information, such as a light, sound, or electrical impulse.
What is the difference between a signal and a sign?
A sign carries meaning by pointing to or standing for something, often passively, like a road sign or a sign of illness. A signal is actively sent or displayed to convey specific information, frequently to prompt a response, such as a traffic light, an alarm, or a hand gesture.
What are the main types of signals?
Signals come in many forms. Visual signals use light or movement, like beacons and gestures; audible signals use sound, like sirens and bells; and electronic signals carry information as electrical or radio waves. Engineers also distinguish analog signals, which vary smoothly, from digital signals, which use discrete values.
What is an example of a signal?
Everyday examples include a red traffic light telling drivers to stop, a smoke alarm sounding, a referee's whistle, or the bars showing your phone's reception. Each one transmits or displays information meant to be noticed and understood, which is what makes it a signal rather than just an object.