signify

verb

sig·​ni·​fy ˈsig-nə-ˌfī 

signified; signifying

transitive verb

1

a

: to be a sign of : mean

b

: imply

2

: to show especially by a conventional token (such as word, signal, or gesture)

intransitive verb

1

: to have significance : matter

it will not much signify what one wears

—Jane Austen

2

: to engage in signifying

Did you know?

Signify basically means "to make a sign or signal". One of its synonyms is indicate; the index finger is the finger you point with, so to indicate is essentially to point to something. Significant means "important" and significance means "importance;" similarly, insignificant means "unimportant" and insignificance means "lack of importance".

Synonyms

• count
• import
• matter
• mean
• weigh

Examples of signify in a Sentence

A check mark next to your name signifies that you have met all the requirements.

The recent decline of the stock market does not necessarily signify the start of a recession.

He gave her a diamond ring to signify his love.

Whether he agrees or not does not signify.

Recent Examples on the Web

In the downstairs ballroom, Guadagnino embraces his two co-stars, signifying their close relationship. —Ramin Setoodeh, Variety, 4 Nov. 2024

Similarly, Harris will also be holding her final campaign event in the state, signifying the critical role the state plays in securing the presidency. —Hannah Demissie, ABC News, 4 Nov. 2024

Average monthly internet costs in Canada rank fifth most expensive globally for 100Mbps plans, signifying a clear disconnect between service accessibility and affordability. —Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 2 Nov. 2024

The hike signified a turning point in my experience as an outdoor parent. —Frederick Dreier, Outside Online, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English signifien, from Anglo-French signifier, from Latin significare to indicate, signify, from signum sign

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Kids Definition

signify

verb

sig·​ni·​fy ˈsig-nə-ˌfī 

signified; signifying

1

: mean entry 2 sense 2, denote

2

: to show especially by a sign : make known

signified their agreement by nodding

3

: to have importance : matter

doesn't signify much what you wear