Signalling: meaning, definitions and examples
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signalling
[ˈsɪɡnəlɪŋ ]
Definition
communication method
Signalling refers to the act of indicating or communicating something to another person or group typically by using gestures, symbols, or other forms of non-verbal communication. This can include anything from handing someone a note to using a flashing light to alert someone. In various contexts, it can also denote a more formal method of conveying information such as through a signal in electronic communication, or in sports where players signal plays to one another. The significance of signalling often lies in its ability to convey a message quickly and efficiently without the need for spoken words.
Synonyms
communicating, gesturing, indicating, showing.
Examples of usage
- The referee is signalling the end of the match.
- He was signalling to his friend from across the street.
- The lights are signalling that the train is arriving.
- Animals often use body language for signalling their intentions.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term comes from the Old French word 'signal', which means 'signal' or 'indication'.
- The word 'signal' itself has roots in Latin, derived from 'signalis', which means 'of a sign'.
- Its use in communication dates back to the late 1700s, evolving with technology and language.
Communication
- In human interactions, signalling can be verbal, like tone of voice, or non-verbal, like facial expressions.
- Animals use signalling as well; for example, a dog's wagging tail indicates happiness or excitement.
- Signalling plays a crucial role in social interactions, helping to convey messages without direct words.
Technology
- In telecommunications, signalling refers to the exchange of information between devices to establish and manage connections.
- Different signalling protocols allow devices to communicate effectively across various networks, like the internet.
- Traffic lights are a practical example of signalling systems that guide vehicles and pedestrians safely.
Psychology
- Signalling theories suggest that actions or gestures can convey intentions or emotions more powerfully than spoken words.
- In social psychology, body language is a form of signalling that can influence the outcomes of interpersonal interactions.
- Misinterpretations in signalling can lead to misunderstandings, emphasizing the importance of clarity in communication.
Sports
- In sports, players often use hand signals to communicate strategies without alerting the opposing team.
- Referees use signals like whistles and flags to indicate fouls, points, or time-outs during games.
- Each sport has its unique set of signals, aiding in teamwork and coordination.
Translations
Translations of the word "signalling" in other languages:
🇵🇹 sinalização
🇮🇳 संकेत देना
🇩🇪 Signalisierung
🇮🇩 penandaan
🇺🇦 сигналізація
🇵🇱 sygnalizacja
🇯🇵 信号
🇫🇷 signalisation
🇪🇸 señalización
🇹🇷 semaforlama
🇰🇷 신호 발신
🇸🇦 إشارات
🇨🇿 signální
🇸🇰 signalizácia
🇨🇳 信号
🇸🇮 signalizacija
🇮🇸 merki
🇰🇿 сигнализация
🇬🇪 სიგნალიზაცია
🇦🇿 siqnalizasiya
🇲🇽 señalización
Word Frequency Rank
At position #13,819, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.
- ...
- 13816 latex
- 13817 sunken
- 13818 inductance
- 13819 signalling
- 13820 relinquished
- 13821 deterrence
- 13822 synaptic
- ...