What does sign mean?
“Sign” is a versatile English word for anything that communicates a meaning beyond ordinary speech. As a noun, it may denote a physical mark or placard, such as a road sign or warning sign; a gesture, such as a sign of approval; or an indication that something is present, as in “a sign of improvement.” It can also refer to a commercial display or an astrological symbol. As a verb, “sign” most commonly means to write one’s name on a document, thereby indicating agreement, authorization, or acknowledgment. Less formally, it means to gesture or signal, and in literary contexts it can mean to become visible across someone’s face. The word’s broad range of meanings makes it useful in discussions of language, symbols, evidence, communication, and written consent.
A mark, symbol, gesture, notice, or other device used to communicate information; also, an indication or evidence of something.
"There was a sign on the door, but it did not say what the meeting was about."
The sense ranges from concrete symbols and notices to abstract indications, such as “a sign of trouble.” In some contexts, especially astrology, it refers to one of the zodiacal divisions.
To write one's name on a document or other object, especially to authorize, acknowledge, or agree to it; also, to make a meaningful gesture or indicate formally.
"Both parties signed the contract before the meeting began."
“Sign” is most standard and frequent in the sense of signing a document. The gesture and literary senses are also established, but “sign” is less formal than “signal” when used to mean make a gesture.
The usual plural of the noun; it refers to multiple marks, notices, symbols, or indications.
"Road signs appeared on both sides of the highway."
From a Latin word for a military standard, “sign” grew into everything we use to communicate without speaking, from road signs to signatures.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of sign
The word comes from Latin signum, meaning a sign, token, standard, or military ensign. English borrowed it in antiquity and developed many meanings from the idea of a visible mark that signifies something. The related forms “signal,” “signature,” and “signatory” also reflect the Latin family associated with marking, indicating, and formally attesting.
Related word forms
How sign is actually used
The noun is common in British and American English. “Sign” can refer to an official or standardized symbol, an informal indication, or a physical notice, depending on context; in informal descriptions, “a sign of” often means evidence of a condition or tendency. The verb “sign” is standard for writing a name on a document and commonly appears with contracts, forms, agreements, and letters.
Easily confused with sign
A sign is a symbol, gesture, or written mark, while a signature is a person's name or mark used to authorize a document or express agreement.