Signage: meaning, definitions and examples

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signage

[ˈsaɪnɪdʒ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

advertising

Signage refers to the design or use of signs and symbols to communicate a message to a specific group, usually for the purpose of marketing or identification.

Synonyms

banners, signboards, signs.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
signage	Used for the collective description of signs or a system of signs, usually in a professional or business setting. Effective signage can help guide customers through a large shopping mall. The company worked with a design firm to create new signage for their offices.
signs	A general term used for any kind of visual display containing information, which can be used in a variety of settings including roads, shops, and events. Street signs are essential for giving directions to drivers. No smoking signs were placed throughout the building.
signboards	Refers to physical boards that display signs or information, often found at roadsides, shops, or public spaces. The store owner replaced the old signboard with a more modern one. Drivers rely on signboards to navigate unfamiliar routes.
banners	Typically refers to large, flexible signs that can be hung or displayed in prominent places, often used for advertising, celebrations, or events. They hung banners across the street to advertise the upcoming festival. Welcome banners were positioned at the entrance of the school for the new term.

Examples of usage

Effective signage can attract more customers to a business.
The hotel invested in new signage to improve visibility.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

urban planning

In urban planning, signage plays a crucial role in directing traffic, providing information, and enhancing the overall aesthetics of a city.

Synonyms

directional signs, street signs, wayfinding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
signage	General term for all types of signs, usually used for branding, advertising, or informational purposes within a space like buildings, parks, or campuses. The new museum features modern signage to guide visitors Effective signage can enhance a business' brand identity
wayfinding	Comprehensive term for systems that help people navigate through physical spaces, includes maps, symbols, and directional signs. The airport's wayfinding system was recently updated to improve passenger flow Good wayfinding is essential for a positive visitor experience in large venues
directional signs	Specifically used to show directions within a complex or area. Often used in large facilities like hospitals, shopping malls, and airports. Directional signs helped the visitors find their way to the conference room The mall installed new directional signs for better guidance
street signs	Typically used outdoors on the streets to control traffic, provide street names, or give specific instructions to drivers and pedestrians. Street signs indicated a detour due to construction The new street signs made navigation easier for tourists

Examples of usage

The city council implemented new signage to improve pedestrian safety.
Clear signage is essential for visitors to navigate the city.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from 'sign', which comes from the Latin word 'signum' meaning 'mark' or 'symbol'.
Although 'signage' became popular in English in the 1970s, it had earlier informal uses related to the design and placement of signs.

Art & Design

Effective signage combines visual elements like font, color, and imagery to communicate messages quickly and clearly.
In urban environments, the design of signs contributes significantly to the aesthetics and navigability of public spaces.

Psychology

Research shows that well-designed signage can improve people's ability to navigate environments, reducing stress and confusion.
Color psychology plays a role in signage; for example, blue is often used to convey trustworthiness, while red signifies urgency.

History

In ancient Rome, signs were often painted on walls or used in marketplaces to guide citizens and visitors.
By the 19th century, the proliferation of printed advertisements led to a rise in commercial signage, marking the beginning of an industry.

Pop Culture

Signage appeared in media to symbolize communication and information, seen in films like 'Signs' and various road trip narratives.
It's common to see unique or humorous signage featured on social media platforms, highlighting creativity and wit in public messaging.

Translations

Translations of the word "signage" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sinalização

🇮🇳 संकेत

🇩🇪 Beschilderung

🇮🇩 penunjuk

🇺🇦 знаки

🇵🇱 oznakowanie

🇯🇵 標識 (ひょうしき)

🇫🇷 signalisation

🇪🇸 señalización

🇹🇷 tabela

🇰🇷 표지판

🇸🇦 لافتات

🇨🇿 značení

🇸🇰 označenie

🇨🇳 标志 (biāozhì)

🇸🇮 označevanje

🇮🇸 merkingar

🇰🇿 белгілер

🇬🇪 ნიშნები

🇦🇿 işarələr

🇲🇽 señalización