Indicator: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used in contexts where something reveals or points to a condition, trend, or situation.

• The rising temperature is an indicator of global warming.
• Economic indicators show a decline in employment rates.

Usually used in contexts where something is communicated through a gesture, action, or sound, often intentionally.

• The fire alarm is a signal to evacuate the building.
• The coach gave the players a signal to start the play.

Used to indicate a position, some form of future events or important points in time, often in more informal or everyday contexts.

• The monument acts as a marker for the battle that took place here.
• Use the bookmark as a marker to keep your place in the book.

Commonly used to signal the existence or occurrence of an event, condition, or situation, often visible or observable.

• Dark clouds are a sign that it might rain soon.
• Yawning can be a sign that someone is tired.

Used to refer to something that provides a sign or signal of a situation or level of a factor.

• The economic indicators showed a decline in the country's GDP.
• The temperature indicator on the dashboard flashed red.

Commonly used to refer to devices or instruments that measure and display values, such as pressure, depth, or temperature, often used in more mechanical or industrial settings.

• The fuel gauge shows that the tank is nearly empty.
• A pressure gauge is used to monitor the status of the hydraulic system.

Typically used when referring to devices that record and display measurements, often used in scientific, utility, or commercial contexts.

• The electricity meter was checked for accurate billing.
• A speedometer is a type of meter used to measure the speed of a vehicle.

Often used as a verb in general contexts to denote the act of determining the size, amount, or degree of something, but can also be a noun referring to standards or actions taken to achieve a result.

• It's important to measure the ingredients accurately while baking.
• They implemented new safety measures in the workplace.

Used in both technical and everyday language to signify something that shows the status or condition of something else.

• The fuel gauge is an indicator of how much gas is left in the car
• The rising unemployment rate is an indicator of economic trouble

Typically refers to a source of illumination or sometimes a visual symbol that conveys information, especially in control panels or everyday objects.

• The traffic light turned red, so we stopped the car
• The light on my coffee machine indicates it’s ready

Commonly used in the context of showing information visually, often on screens or physical boards.

• The display on my phone shows the time and notifications
• The art museum has a beautiful display of paintings

Often describes a transmission or an action taken to convey information or instructions, frequently used in both technical and everyday settings.

• The radio signal was weak and full of static
• Raising his hand was a signal for the team to proceed