signal 1 of 3

1
as in flag
an object intended to give public notice or warning stop signs are signals for vehicles to come to a full stop—not suggestions for slowing down, as some drivers seem to think

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2
as in gesture
a movement of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea or feeling quietly waiting for the signal to advance

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signal

2 of 3

verb

as in to motion
to direct or notify by a movement or gesture signaled the oncoming traffic to stop while the wrecked car was being towed away

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signal

3 of 3

adjective

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 signal
Noun
The press headlines reflect this divide and as Iranian and American negotiators prepare to meet, the tone of coverage could shape public opinion and signal how much political room Iran's government has to maneuver. Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025 The new location at 128 Spring Street is the brand’s third U.S. location, but, the CEO explained, is not a signal of a larger boutique roll out. Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 9 Apr. 2025
Verb
Their routines, quiet and mundane, signal a growing — and largely invisible — crisis that threatens New York City’s future. Jonah Markowitz, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2025 Creating a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Last month, Trump signed an order to create a federal Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, signaling new federal support for cryptocurrency in general and Bitcoin in particular. Josh Meyer, USA Today, 8 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for signal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for signal
Noun
  • The visiting president released a nearly 2-minute video chronicling his arrival that included shots of the two countries’ flags, U.S. military color guard, and of course, Bukele himself, exiting his plane and into a black SUV, dressed in all black and dark sunglasses.
    David Catanese, Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Later, when the university sent a letter revoking its sponsorship of Mecha, the club’s members staged a protest at one of the school’s cultural centers, reportedly waving a Palestinian flag and refusing to leave.
    Emma Green, New Yorker, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Pulling off the gesture required significant behind-the-scenes planning by her husband.
    Daniel R. Depetris, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Apr. 2025
  • These gestures can make your friends feel wanted.
    Danielle Bayard Jackson, Contributor, CNBC, 10 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Since the case was moved to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, Clifton and the city have motioned to dismiss Pinyan’s lawsuit, records show.
    Julia Marnin, Miami Herald, 15 Apr. 2025
  • Meta motioned to end the case last April, but Boasberg denied it, ruling in November that the company must face trial.
    Jonathan Vanian, CNBC, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The thicker frame is reminiscent of an earlier era filled with outstanding fashion.
    Christopher Murray, FOXNews.com, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Bob Kendrick and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum have been outstanding in this regard.
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 16 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Tingling, numbness, and buzzing While severe pain and burning are typical symptoms, tingling and buzzing sensations, along with numbness, can also be early signs of shingles.
    Cheyenne Buckingham, SELF, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Changes in appetite can be one of several physical signs your child feels pressured to be perfect.
    Sherri Gordon, Parents, 17 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Counter-protesters posted up on street corners outside the college campus, waving pro-Trump flags and gathering signatures for the latest effort to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom from office.
    Nicole Nixon, Sacbee.com, 16 Apr. 2025
  • If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 15 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Over time, inhaling these harmful chemicals can contribute to progressive lung problems like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to Sanjay Sethi, MD, SUNY distinguished professor and chief of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine at the University at Buffalo.
    Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 16 Apr. 2025
  • Palmer was just one of several celebrities and distinguished guests who attended the Fashion Trust Awards on Tuesday.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • If Cullen marries his daughter, perhaps he’ll be inclined to complete a letter of recommendation that the young man had requested for a prestigious fellowship.
    Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 17 Apr. 2025
  • International students – including at prestigious American universities – have been targeted amid the Trump administration’s larger immigration crackdown.
    Caroll Alvarado, CNN Money, 17 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

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

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