signal
SIHG-nuhl
Signal (noun) means something transmitted or displayed that conveys information, such as a light, sound, or electrical impulse. Example: “The ship sent a distress signal by radio.”
noun
1
Something transmitted or displayed that conveys information, such as a light, sound, or electrical impulse.
"The ship sent a distress signal by radio."
"Weak phone signal made the call keep dropping."
"A green signal on the panel tells the driver that the line ahead is clear."
2
An action or event that indicates something is about to happen, or serves as a cue.
"The whistle was the signal to start the race."
"When the lights dimmed, that was the signal for the audience to take their seats."
"She gave me a quick nod as a signal that it was time to leave."
verb
1
To indicate or communicate something using a gesture, sound, or device.
"He signaled a left turn before pulling out."
"The change in tone signaled that she was getting angry."
"The referee signalled with a raised arm that the match could begin."
adj
1
Remarkably notable or important.
"It was a signal achievement for such a young scientist."
"The new bridge was a signal success for the whole town."
"The scheme made a signal contribution to cleaner rivers in the region."
How to use signal
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishInformation sent through a channel (light, sound, radio waves), or, as a verb, to indicate something is happening.
Common pairings
send a signal
signal a turn
weak signal
signal boost
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Word forms
- Plural
- signals
- Third person singular
- signals
- Past tense
- signaled, signalled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The ship sent a distress _____ by radio.
Etymology
From Old French segnal and Late Latin signalis, from Latin signum ("sign").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
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.
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