Signify Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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signify

[ˈsɪɡnɪˌfaɪ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

communication

To be a sign of; denote. To have importance or bearing on. To convey or express in a particular way.

Synonyms

denote, indicate, mean, represent, symbolize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
signify	Use when you want to show that something has a particular meaning or importance, often in a formal context. The red flag signifies danger. The handshake signifies their agreement.
indicate	Appropriate for pointing out something or showing that something is likely without explicitly stating it. The data indicate a high level of customer satisfaction. The clouds indicate that it might rain soon.
denote	Use when you need to precisely state that a word or symbol specifically refers to a type of object or concept. In the map, the blue lines denote rivers. 'Dr.' before a name denotes a medical professional.
represent	Use when showing that one thing stands for or symbolizes another, often used for ideas or abstract concepts. The dove represents peace. In our culture, the color white represents purity.
mean	Used in everyday conversation to explain what a word, phrase, or situation signifies. What does this word mean? When I say 'early', I mean before 8 AM.
symbolize	Used to talk about symbols in a literary, artistic, or cultural context. In literature, the black cat often symbolizes bad luck. The olive branch symbolizes peace.

Examples of usage

The ringing of the bell signified the start of the ceremony.
His silence signified his disapproval.
The red traffic light signifies that it is not safe to cross the road.
Her smile signified her happiness.
The handshake signified the beginning of a new friendship.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

formal

To make known by signs, speech, or action.

Synonyms

communicate, convey, express, indicate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
signify	Used when something shows or means something, often in a formal or symbolic manner. The red traffic light signifies that you must stop. His absence from the meeting could signify a lack of interest.
indicate	Used when you want to point out or show something, often with a physical gesture or a sign. The arrow indicates the right direction. His tone indicated that he was annoyed.
express	Used when you want to show thoughts, feelings, or ideas through words, actions, art, etc. He found it difficult to express his emotions. She expressed her joy through painting.
communicate	Used for the act of sharing or exchanging information, often between people. She found it challenging to communicate her feelings. We need to communicate regularly to keep everyone updated.
convey	Used when you want to describe the act of making ideas or feelings known to someone. It's hard to convey how grateful I am. The novel effectively conveys the struggles of the protagonist.

Examples of usage

He signified his agreement by nodding his head.
She signified her intention to leave by standing up.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

obsolete

A symbol or sign.

Synonyms

mark, sign, symbol.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
signify	Used to show that something is important or means something specific. The red color signifies danger. Her smile signified her approval.
symbol	Used to represent an idea, quality, or concept, often in a literal or figurative form. The dove is a symbol of peace. In literature, light often symbolizes hope.
sign	Used to indicate an object, gesture, or event that conveys a message or information. The traffic sign indicates that we should stop. He gave me a sign to start the presentation.
mark	Used to indicate a specific point in time, an event, or an achievement. This day marks our anniversary. The ceremony will mark the beginning of a new era.

Examples of usage

The eagle was a signify of strength and power.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

In semiotics, a field that studies signs, 'signify' is central to understanding how meaning is constructed.
Philosopher Ferdinand de Saussure argued that the relationship between words and their meanings is arbitrary, highlighting how words signify different concepts.
The act of signifying often plays a role in social interactions, as gestures and expressions also convey meaning beyond words.

Art and Literature

In literature, symbolism is key; authors use objects or actions to signify deeper themes or ideas.
Visual artists often use colors to signify emotions; for example, blue might signify calmness or sadness.
Interpreting what a piece of art signifies can change based on cultural context or audience perspective.

Psychology

Human beings are wired to recognize and interpret signs, aiding in communication and social cohesion.
Non-verbal forms of communication, such as facial expressions, can significantly signify emotions or attitudes.
Studies show that understanding symbols improves cognitive skills, making it vital in education.

Pop Culture

In movies, a character's act might signify more than just a plot point; it often highlights their inner thoughts or conflicts.
Social media uses icons that signify likes, shares, or reactions, showing emotional responses with simple visuals.
The peace sign has come to signify movements for harmony and acceptance, transcending its original context.

Origin of 'signify'

Main points about word origin

The word originates from the Latin word 'significare', which means 'to indicate or show'.
It entered Middle English through Old French, emphasizing its role in communication over centuries.
The root 'sign' carries the meaning of a mark or indication, connecting to the concept of representation.

The word 'signify' originated from the Latin word 'significare', which means 'to make a sign, indicate'. The term has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving from its Old French counterpart 'signifier'. Throughout history, 'signify' has been used to express the idea of conveying meaning or importance through signs or symbols. It has been a key term in communication and language, emphasizing the power of symbols and gestures to convey messages.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,252 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9249 shortcomings
9250 seniority
9251 surround
9252 signify
9253 accidentally
9254 molten
9255 guardians
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