Definition & Bedeutung von "signifier"

What is a "signifier"?

A signifier is the part of a sign that represents or conveys meaning, often taking the form of a word, sound, image, or symbol. It is the physical aspect of a sign that is perceived by the senses. For example, in the word "dog," the letters that make up the word "dog" serve as the signifier. The signifier works in conjunction with the signified, which is the concept or idea that the signifier represents. Understanding the role of the signifier is important for analyzing how language and symbols communicate meaning in various contexts.