semaphoric

adjective

sem·​a·​phor·​ic
variants or less commonly semaphorical
-rə̇kəl
: of, relating to, or suggesting a semaphore
semaphorically
-rə̇k(ə)lē
adverb

Word History

Etymology

Greek sēma sign + English -phoric

First Known Use

1808, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of semaphoric was in 1808

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near semaphoric

Cite this Entry

“Semaphoric.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/semaphoric. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!