signal
noun
[ ˈsɪɡn(ə)l ]
• a gesture, action, or sound that is used to convey information or instructions, typically by prearrangement between the parties concerned.
• "the firing of the gun was the signal for a chain of beacons to be lit"
Similar:
gesture,
sign,
wave,
gesticulation,
cue,
prompt,
indicator,
indication,
communication,
message,
alert,
warning,
tip-off,
action,
movement,
motion,
body language,
kinesics,
• an electrical impulse or radio wave transmitted or received.
• "equipment for receiving TV signals"
• an apparatus on a railway, typically a coloured light or a semaphore, giving indications to train drivers of whether or not the line is clear.
• "the driver of the mail train overran a signal at danger and ran into the rear of an express"
signal
verb
• convey information or instructions by means of a gesture, action, or sound.
• "hold your fire until I signal"
Origin:
late Middle English: from Old French, from medieval Latin signale, neuter of late Latin signalis, from Latin signum ‘mark, token’ (see sign). The verb dates from the early 19th century.
signal
adjective
• striking in extent, seriousness, or importance; outstanding.
• "their signal failure to achieve a satisfactory solution to the problem"
Similar:
notable,
noteworthy,
remarkable,
striking,
glaring,
outstanding,
significant,
momentous,
memorable,
unforgettable,
pronounced,
marked,
obvious,
impressive,
distinguished,
uncommon,
unusual,
particular,
special,
extraordinary,
exceptional,
conspicuous,
rare,
Origin:
early 17th century: from French signalé, from the Italian past participle segnalato ‘distinguished, made illustrious’, from segnale ‘a signal’.