What does notice mean?
Notice is a common English word used both as a noun and a verb. As a noun, it can mean an official announcement or warning, a visible sign posted for people to read, or the general condition of being aware of something. In formal contexts such as employment, housing, and law, “notice” often has a precise administrative meaning: an advance communication that informs someone of a decision or gives them an opportunity to act. As a verb, “to notice” means to become aware of or observe something, often when a person, sound, detail, or change stands out. The word can also mean to give someone formal warning, as in “giving notice.” Together, its meanings share an idea of bringing something to attention: physically through a sign or announcement, mentally through awareness, or officially through formal notification.
An announcement, warning, or formal communication intended to bring something to people's attention; also a visible sign or display, or awareness of something.
"A notice announced that the office would be closed on Monday."
In legal and workplace contexts, a notice is a formal communication with specific consequences or deadlines.
To become aware of or observe someone or something; to inform or warn someone formally.
"Did you notice the change in her voice?"
The meaning “to inform or warn formally” is especially common in administrative, legal, and employment contexts.
Use the plural when referring to multiple announcements, signs, warnings, or instances of awareness.
"The notices were posted along the main entrance."
Notice originally meant making something known: its Latin ancestor was notus, meaning “known.” The word has carried that idea ever since—whether you notice a detail or give someone notice of an important change.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does notice come from?
The English word comes through Old French from Latin noticare, “to make known,” ultimately related to Latin notus, meaning “known.” In English, the noun developed meanings connected with awareness, announcements, and formal warnings, while the verb came to mean “to observe” or “to make aware.” Related English words include notable, notify, notion, and notorious.
Related word forms
How notice is actually used
As a noun, “notice” commonly refers to a formal warning or an announcement, while “take notice of” means to pay attention to something. As a verb, “notice” means to become aware of something; in a legal or workplace context, “to notice” someone can mean formally to inform them that they must leave or stop an activity.