Signify: meaning, definitions and examples

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signify

[ ˈsɪɡnɪˌfaɪ ]

^{Context #1}

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

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}

formal

To make known by signs, speech, or action.

Synonyms

communicate, convey, express, indicate

Examples of usage

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

^{Context #3}

obsolete

A symbol or sign.

Synonyms

mark, sign, symbol

Examples of usage

The eagle was a signify of strength and power.

Translations

Translations of the word "signify" in other languages:

🇵🇹 significar

🇮🇳 सूचित करना

🇩🇪 bedeuten

🇮🇩 menandakan

🇺🇦 означати

🇵🇱 oznaczać

🇯🇵 意味する

🇫🇷 signifier

🇪🇸 significar

🇹🇷 belirtmek

🇰🇷 의미하다

🇸🇦 يعني

🇨🇿 znamenat

🇸🇰 znamenať

🇨🇳 表示

🇸🇮 pomeniti

🇮🇸 merkja

🇰🇿 білдіру

🇬🇪 ნიშნავს

🇦🇿 bildirmək

🇲🇽 significar

Word origin

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.