Beacons: meaning, definitions and examples

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beacons

[ˈbiːkənz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

navigation

Beacons are intentionally conspicuous devices designed to attract attention to a specific location. They are typically used for navigation purposes, such as guiding ships or aircraft.

Synonyms

guiding light, marker, signal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
beacons	Used to denote physical or metaphorical indicators that provide direction or guidance. Often used in maritime or aviation contexts. The lighthouse serves as a beacon for ships. His mentor was a beacon of wisdom throughout his career.
signal	Conveys a message or warning, usually involving a form of communication technology like lights, sounds, or gestures. The green light is a signal that it's safe to go. He gave a signal to his team to begin the operation.
marker	Indicates a physical object or sign that denotes position or boundary. Often used in navigation, construction, or mapping. They placed a marker at the trailhead to indicate the start of the path. The buoy serves as a marker for the underwater cable.
guiding light	Emphasizes inspiration, leadership, or moral guidance. Often used metaphorically to describe people or principles. She was a guiding light in the movement for women's rights. His teachings are a guiding light for students.

Examples of usage

Ships rely on beacons to navigate safely through treacherous waters.
The aircraft homed in on the beacon's signal to locate the emergency landing site.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

technology

In technology, beacons are small Bluetooth devices that transmit signals to nearby smartphones or other electronic devices. They are commonly used for location-based services and marketing purposes.

Synonyms

notifier, sender, transmitter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
beacons	Useful in situations where you are referring to a physical or metaphorical guiding or warning signal, often related to navigation or highlighting something important. Lighthouses act as beacons for ships Her success served as a beacon for others to follow
transmitter	Appropriate in contexts involving the sending of electronic signals or data, often in a scientific or technical setting. The radio station needed a new transmitter The transmitter sends signals to the satellite
sender	Ideal for describing a person or device that transmits messages, packages, or data to another party. The sender of the email is unknown He is the sender of the package you received
notifier	Best used when describing a system or person that informs or alerts someone about something, typically in a more official or technological capacity. The app acts as a notifier for upcoming events She is the notifier of all major updates in the project

Examples of usage

The store uses beacons to send promotional notifications to customers in the vicinity.
Beacons can provide indoor navigation assistance in large shopping malls.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'beacon' comes from the Old English word 'beacen' which means 'sign' or 'signal'.
In ancient times, beacons were used by armies to communicate across long distances, often lighting fires on hills or towers.

Maritime Significance

Lighthouses, a type of beacon, have been crucial in maritime navigation since ancient civilizations, preventing shipwrecks.
The world's first modern lighthouse, the Pharos of Alexandria, built in 280 BC, stood over 100 meters tall and guided sailors safely into the harbor.

Technology

In technology, a beacon can refer to devices that use Bluetooth to transmit signals to nearby smartphones for location-based services.
Automated beacons are now deployed in various fields, from guiding drones to assisting in indoor navigation in large buildings.

Cultural References

Beacons often symbolize hope and guidance in literature and film, like the beacon seen at the end of The Lord of the Rings.
In some cultures, lighting a fire on a hill is a traditional way to celebrate important events or warn others of danger.

Environmental Awareness

Beacons are also used for wildlife conservation, guiding birds safely during migration and avoiding collisions with man-made structures.
Today, eco-beacons are being developed to signal the importance of protecting natural habitats and biodiversity.

Translations

Translations of the word "beacons" in other languages:

🇵🇹 faróis

🇮🇳 बीकन

🇩🇪 Leuchtfeuer

🇮🇩 suar

🇺🇦 маяки

🇵🇱 latarnie

🇯🇵 ビーコン

🇫🇷 balises

🇪🇸 balizas

🇹🇷 işaretler

🇰🇷 비컨

🇸🇦 منارات

🇨🇿 majáky

🇸🇰 majáky

🇨🇳 信标

🇸🇮 svetilniki

🇮🇸 vita

🇰🇿 маяктар

🇬🇪 სინათლეები

🇦🇿 mayaklar

🇲🇽 balizas

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,625, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20622 depreciate
20623 banked
20624 descriptor
20625 beacons
20626 prehistory
20627 offeror
20628 excruciating
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