Signs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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signs
[saɪnz ]
Definitions
road
objects, symbols, letters, or numbers displayed to give information or directions to drivers
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The signs along the highway warned of construction ahead.
- She didn't see the stop sign and almost drove through the intersection.
astrology
the twelve divisions of the zodiac, each named for a constellation
Synonyms
horoscope signs, zodiac symbols.
Examples of usage
- What's your zodiac sign?
- According to my horoscope, I should avoid making any major decisions today.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Art and Communication
- In contemporary art, signs are often used to challenge viewers' perceptions and underscore the power of visual communication.
- Semiotics, the study of signs and symbols, informs how we understand meaning in art, literature, and everyday life.
- Visual signs, like icons and logos, are essential in branding and advertising, shaping consumer recognition.
Psychology
- People often rely on signs from their environment to guide their decisions, reflecting how we interpret information.
- The interpretation of signs can vary significantly across cultures, showing how context shapes meaning.
- Research shows that individuals are more inclined to notice and remember signs that are vivid or emotionally impactful.
Cultural Practices
- In many cultures, signs and symbols play crucial roles in religious rites and traditions, like the use of the cross in Christianity.
- Astrology uses zodiac signs to provide insights into personality traits and life forecasts, a practice dating back thousands of years.
- Traffic signs serve as a universal language that transcends barriers, keeping roads safer for everyone.
Historical Usage
- Historically, signs were essential for navigation, with sailors relying on star signs and symbols for direction.
- The transition from oral to written language marked a significant use of signs in recording history and laws.
- The invention of the printing press in the 15th century revolutionized the ability to disseminate signs as messages to the masses.
Origin of 'signs'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sign' comes from the Latin word 'signum', which means a mark or indication.
- In Old English, 'sign' was linked to the action of pointing out something important.
- The use of symbols as signs has been traced back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Sumerians.
The word 'signs' originated from the Latin word 'signum', meaning a mark or token. Over time, it has evolved to encompass various meanings related to symbols, indications, and astrological significance. Signs play a crucial role in communication, providing information, warnings, and guidance in different contexts.
See also: cosigner, ensign, sign, signage, signal, signatory, signature, signer, significant, signify, signing.