Wigwag: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆ
wigwag
[ หwษชษกหwรฆษก ]
motion signaling
To wigwag means to move or signal something back and forth or from side to side. This action is often used as a form of communication, particularly in contexts such as traffic signaling or by flag-waving operators. The term can also imply a playful or rhythmic movement, suggesting a lighthearted or casual approach to signaling. It is common in various forms of verbal and non-verbal communication.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The traffic officer wigwagged his arms to direct the cars.
- She wigwagged her fingers to get his attention.
- The flags were wigwagging in the wind.
signal method
A wigwag refers to a signaling method, often employed in contexts like railroads or maritime signaling where alternate signals are used to convey instructions. The term can denote devices such as lights or flags that operate in a back-and-forth manner. As a noun, it captures the essence of communication through movement as a functional yet effective means to relay information.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The wigwag system was installed to enhance rail safety.
- A wigwag at the crossing indicated trains were approaching.
- The wigwag lights flashed to alert drivers.
Translations
Translations of the word "wigwag" in other languages:
๐ต๐น bandeira
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคเคกเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช Wimpel
๐ฎ๐ฉ bendera
๐บ๐ฆ ะฟัะฐะฟะพั
๐ต๐ฑ flaga
๐ฏ๐ต ๆ
๐ซ๐ท drapeau
๐ช๐ธ bandera
๐น๐ท bayrak
๐ฐ๐ท ๊น๋ฐ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุนูู
๐จ๐ฟ vlajka
๐ธ๐ฐ zรกstava
๐จ๐ณ ๆๅธ
๐ธ๐ฎ zastava
๐ฎ๐ธ fรกni
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัั
๐ฌ๐ช แฏแแแ แ
๐ฆ๐ฟ bayraq
๐ฒ๐ฝ bandera
Etymology
The term 'wigwag' originates from the early 19th century, possibly derived from a combination of 'wig' (to move about) and 'wag' (to shake or move back and forth). Historically, the word was used to describe a signaling device that would move in a back-and-forth motion to attract attention or convey a message. The use of flag signals in military and maritime contexts contributed to its popularization, aligning with the action of waving flags to send messages. Over time, 'wigwag' seeped into colloquial usage, extending beyond formal signaling to describe various playful or lighthearted movements. Its adoption has persisted in various contexts, from traffic management to informal gestures, solidifying its place in the English language.