sign
sign
saɪn
sain
British pronunciation
/saɪn/

Definition & Meaning of "sign"in English

Sign
01

a symbol or letters used in math, music, or other subjects to show an instruction, idea, etc.

sign definition and meaning
example
Examples
In mathematics, the plus sign ( + ) is commonly used to represent addition.
In chemistry, chemical equations often include signs such as arrows ( → ) to denote the direction of a reaction.
02

an objective or observable indication of a disorder, disease, or medical condition

sign definition and meaning
example
Examples
Fever can be a sign of infection.
Swelling is a common sign of inflammation.
03

a perceptible indication or clue of something not immediately obvious

example
Examples
Dark clouds were a sign of approaching rain.
The cracks in the wall were a sign of structural damage.
04

a text or symbol that is displayed in public to give instructions, warnings, or information

example
Examples
The sign at the entrance warns visitors to keep off the grass.
There was a sign on the door saying " No Entry. "
05

any nonverbal gesture, motion, or action used to communicate meaning

example
Examples
She gave a thumbs-up as a sign of approval.
Nodding can be a sign of agreement.
06

a physical structure, typically a board, used for posting advertisements or notices

example
Examples
A large neon sign advertised the theater.
A temporary sign marked the event location.
07

one of the twelve divisions of the zodiac, each associated with specific dates and characteristics

example
Examples
He is a Leo, according to his zodiac sign.
The astrology chart shows all twelve signs.
08

a gesture or symbol that is part of a system of communication in sign language

example
Examples
She learned the sign for " thank you " in American Sign Language.
The teacher demonstrated the sign for " cat. "
09

the property of an object, particle, or quantity indicating its polarity, such as positive or negative electric charge

example
Examples
Electrons have a negative sign, while protons have a positive sign.
The sign of the charge determines the direction of the electric field.
10

a fundamental unit of language linking a signifier to what it signifies

What is a "sign"?

A sign is a basic unit that conveys meaning and represents a concept, idea, or object. It consists of two main parts: the signifier, which is the form that the sign takes, such as a word, image, or sound, and the signified, which is the concept or idea that the sign represents. The relationship between the signifier and the signified is often arbitrary, meaning that there is no inherent connection between the two; instead, it is based on social or cultural agreements. For example, the word "tree" is a sign where "tree" is the signifier and the actual concept of a tree is the signified. Understanding signs is essential for interpreting language and communication, as they allow people to share and convey complex ideas effectively.

example
Examples
Words are the primary signs in spoken language.
In semiotics, a sign combines form and meaning.
11

the property of a number indicating whether it is positive or negative, excluding zero

example
Examples
The sign of 5 is positive.
Negative numbers carry a minus sign.
to sign
01

to write one's name or mark on a document to indicate acceptance, approval, or endorsement of its contents

Transitive: to sign a document
to sign definition and meaning
example
Examples
The author regularly signs copies of her books at book signings.
The author excitedly signed copies of the newly published book at the book signing event.
1.1

to agree to the terms of a contract by putting one's signature to it

Transitive: to sign a contract
to sign definition and meaning
example
Examples
After reviewing the lease agreement, he decided to sign it and move into the apartment.
The athlete was thrilled to sign a lucrative endorsement deal with a major sports brand.
1.2

to formally secure the services of an individual by entering into a contractual agreement with them

Transitive: to sign sb
example
Examples
The football club signed a promising young striker to strengthen their attacking lineup for the upcoming season.
The record label signed a talented singer-songwriter after seeing her perform at a local music venue.
02

to use sign language for communication

Transitive: to sign words
Intransitive
to sign definition and meaning
example
Examples
She signs fluently, allowing her to communicate effectively with the deaf community.
He signs with remarkable speed, making communication swift and efficient.
03

to use hand movements, facial expressions, or body language to communicate messages

Intransitive: to sign to sb
example
Examples
She signed to her friend across the room, asking if she wanted to join them for lunch.
John signed to his colleague from across the crowded room, inviting her to join their table for the meeting.
04

to make the sign of the cross as a symbol of blessing or protection

Transitive: to sign sb/sth
example
Examples
Before beginning the ceremony, the bishop signed the congregation, invoking God's grace and protection upon them.
The parents signed their newborn baby with the cross, asking for God's blessings and protection upon their child.
05

to use markers or signposts to show the way or provide information about a location

Transitive: to sign a place or road
example
Examples
The city council signed the streets with colorful banners flags, guiding visitors to the main attractions.
The park ranger signed the trail with new markers
01

relating to the system of communication used by deaf people, typically involving gestures and visual symbols

example
Examples
The interpreter provided a sign translation during the lecture.
Sign expression is essential in conveying emotion in the language.
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