sign 1 of 2

verb

Definition of signnext
as in to autograph
to write one's name on (as a document) you'll have to sign the contract for it to be legal

Synonyms & Similar Words

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sign

2 of 2

noun

ˈsīn How to pronounce sign (audio)
1
as in gesture
a movement of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea or feeling made a sign for the audience to be quiet

Synonyms & Similar Words
2
as in symbol
a written or printed mark that is meant to convey information to the reader an "and" sign

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sign distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of sign are mark, note, symptom, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

When is it sensible to use mark instead of sign?

The words mark and sign are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When could note be used to replace sign?

The synonyms note and sign are sometimes interchangeable, but note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

Where would symptom be a reasonable alternative to sign?

While the synonyms symptom and sign are close in meaning, symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

When can token be used instead of sign?

While in some cases nearly identical to sign, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sign
Verb
Bleacher Report's Zachary Rymer recently predicted Verdugo would sign a deal with the Kansas City Royals this season. — Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025 The two cities have also signed several letters of intent and memorandums of understanding regarding the park and possible annexations. — David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Mar. 2025
Noun
Francis' doctors said there are positive signs of the pontiff's recovery, but caution remains, according to Vatican sources. — Jon Haworth, ABC News, 12 Mar. 2025 As expected, the bass, middle, and treble all go to 11, but the master volume has a new special feature — an infinity sign. — Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sign
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sign
  1. autograph
  2. gesture
  3. symbol
  4. pen
Verb
  • Like any author, Brando autographed copies of his book, at least one of which could have ended up at Mystery Pier Books.
    — Martha Ross, The Mercury News, 26 Dec. 2024
  • Brooks: Going along nicely with the 1990 throwbacks is the return of Barry Bonds autographed cards for the first time since 2017.
    — Brooks Peck, The Athletic, 15 Feb. 2025
Definition of autograph
Noun
  • These range from coral restoration in Jamaica to water catchments for schools in Grenada and marine conservation education in Antigua—and even seemingly small gestures that can have a big impact, like supplying technology to an elementary school in the Bahamas.
    — Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 18 Mar. 2025
  • Israel's spy agency lists failures in preventing Oct. 7 attack Senior Hamas official Bassem Naim said in a statement the group would release Alexander, who is alive, and the bodies of four dual nationals as an initial gesture.
    — Aya Batrawy, NPR, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of gesture
Noun
  • The letter is a key symbol of bipartisan support for CDFIs and a notable pushback against the president.
    — Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025
  • With the reopening just a few weeks away, the team sees the Veranda House’s return as a symbol of the town’s tenacious spirit.
    — Mae Hamilton, Travel + Leisure, 21 Mar. 2025
Definition of symbol
Verb
  • Baum penned numerous novels and short stories, poems, and scripts.
    — Nancy Olson, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025
  • Ahead of Tory Lanez’s sentencing after being found guilty in the shooting assault of Megan Thee Stallion, Iggy Azalea was one of several musicians who penned a letter to the judge on behalf of the rapper/singer’s character.
    — DeMicia Inman, VIBE.com, 10 Mar. 2025
Definition of pen

Phrases Containing sign

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Cite this Entry

“Sign.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sign. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on sign

Nglish: Translation of sign for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sign

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