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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’.


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