What does signification mean?
Signification is a formal noun meaning the meaning or interpretation carried by a word, sign, gesture, action, or other symbol. It is used when discussing how something communicates or what a particular expression, practice, or cultural object represents. The word is especially common in linguistics, semiotics, philosophy, religious studies, and literary analysis. In everyday use, it often sounds elevated or academic, so meaning is usually the more natural alternative. Signification can also refer more broadly to the process of making or interpreting meaning. Its distinction from significance is important: signification concerns what a sign or expression means, while significance more often concerns its importance or consequences.
The meaning or interpretation of a word, sign, gesture, action, or other symbol.
"The speaker avoided explaining the signification of the unfamiliar symbol."
Formal and especially common in academic or philosophical writing.
The process or practice of assigning, conveying, or interpreting meaning.
"The course examines signification across different cultures and media."
Often used in semiotics, philosophy, and related fields.
The plural is used for distinct meanings, interpretations, or instances of signification.
"The manuscript admits several competing significations."
Signification is the word for the hidden conversation between a symbol and the mind that interprets it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does signification come from?
Signification entered English from Latin significationem, a noun formed from significare, meaning 'to mean' or 'to signify.' The Latin verb developed from signum, meaning 'sign' or 'mark,' with the suffix -ficare, associated with making or producing. English borrowed the noun in the late 16th century in the sense of meaning or signification, and it later acquired specialized uses in philosophy, linguistics, and semiotics.
Related word forms
How signification is actually used
Signification is more formal and somewhat less common than meaning. In semiotics and philosophy, it can denote the relationship between signs and their interpretations, not simply a synonym for a word's definition.
Easily confused with signification
Signification usually means what a sign or expression signifies, whereas significance more often emphasizes importance, relevance, or consequence.
Signification is the noun meaning or the process of meaning; signify is the verb meaning 'to mean' or 'to indicate.'