noun
B1
Intermediate
signpost
SYN-pohst
Signpost (noun) means a post with a sign that shows directions or distances. Example: “The signpost pointed the way to the next village.”
noun
1
A post with a sign that shows directions or distances.
"Dozens of signposts have been stolen, forcing the local authorities to put up the sign at a 2m height and embed it in theft-resistant concrete when putting up replacements."
— Philip Oltermann in Berlin, Fugging hell: tired of mockery, Austrian village changes name (2020)
"The signpost pointed the way to the next village."
verb
1
To clearly show or point toward something, often figuratively.
"The introduction signposts the main arguments of the essay."
How to use signpost
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA directional road sign, or, as a verb, to clearly indicate what's coming next.
Common pairings
signpost the way
clear signposting
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Word forms
- Plural
- signposts
- Third person singular
- signposts
- Past tense
- signposted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ pointed the way to the next village.
Etymology
A compound of sign and post.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “signpost” mean?
The word “signpost” means a post with a sign that shows directions or distances. In plain terms, a directional road sign, or, as a verb, to clearly indicate what's coming next.
How do you pronounce “signpost”?
“Signpost” is pronounced SYN-pohst (/ˈsaɪnˌpoʊst/ in IPA).
How do you use “signpost” in a sentence?
Here is “signpost” used in a sentence: “The signpost pointed the way to the next village.”
What part of speech is “signpost”?
Depending on how it is used, “signpost” can be a noun and a verb.
How many meanings does “signpost” have?
“Signpost” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a post with a sign that shows directions or distances.
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