sign 1 of 2

verb

Definition of signnext
as in to autograph
to write one's name on (as a document) you'll have to sign the contract for it to be legal

Synonyms & Similar Words

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sign

2 of 2

noun

ˈsīn How to pronounce sign (audio)
1
as in gesture
a movement of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea or feeling made a sign for the audience to be quiet

Synonyms & Similar Words
2
as in symbol
a written or printed mark that is meant to convey information to the reader an "and" sign

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sign distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of sign are mark, note, symptom, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

When is it sensible to use mark instead of sign?

The words mark and sign are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When could note be used to replace sign?

The synonyms note and sign are sometimes interchangeable, but note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

Where would symptom be a reasonable alternative to sign?

While the synonyms symptom and sign are close in meaning, symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

When can token be used instead of sign?

While in some cases nearly identical to sign, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sign
Verb
In addition, there’s a post-credits scene that features the young version of Sammie signing a song, which, like the mid-credits scene, doesn’t serve as a springboard for a sequel. —Tim Lammers, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025 Trump signed another executive order that forced all federal employees who work remotely to return the office. —Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 18 Apr. 2025
Noun
Dark Cherry Getty Images Getty Images Cherry cola hair has been on the come-up since fall 2023, and the trend—or some version of dark cherry or burgundy hair—shows no signs of slowing down in 2025. —Avery Stone, Allure, 17 Apr. 2025 And where the signs of new beginnings are evident everywhere. —Bea L. Hines, Miami Herald, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sign
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sign
  1. autograph
  2. gesture
  3. symbol
  4. pen
Verb
  • That especially applies to a card from his MLB debut, which is autographed and has a patch from his jersey.
    — Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025
  • The previous high mark was set by the pitcher’s one-of-a-kind 2023 Bowman Draft Chrome Prospect autographed Superfractor card (PSA 7 card grade, 10 auto grade), which sold for $123,200 through Goldin Auctions last September.
    — Larry Holder, The Athletic, 21 Mar. 2025
Definition of autograph
Noun
  • These gestures can make your friends feel wanted.
    — Danielle Bayard Jackson, Contributor, CNBC, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Pulling off the gesture required significant behind-the-scenes planning by her husband.
    — Daniel R. Depetris, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Apr. 2025
Definition of gesture
Noun
  • The company said the dress code change will maintain the green apron's status as the symbol for Starbucks since they were introduced in 1987.
    — Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 14 Apr. 2025
  • The backlash prompted national Democrats to make Musk a centerpiece of their messaging, casting him as a symbol of Trump-era government overreach.
    — David Faris, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Apr. 2025
Definition of symbol
Verb
  • In honor of the couple's eighth wedding anniversary, Lindsey penned a sweet post about his wife on Instagram.
    — Samantha Stutsman, People.com, 12 Apr. 2025
  • This past December, a nonprofit fencing organization, the Fair Fencing Organization, penned an open letter to USA Fencing Board Members urging the re-evaluation of its stance on several issues, including transgender inclusion.
    — Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 11 Apr. 2025
Definition of pen

Phrases Containing sign

Browse Nearby Words

sightseers
sign
signal
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Cite this Entry

“Sign.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sign. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on sign

Nglish: Translation of sign for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sign

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