Synonyms of sign

sign 1 of 2

verb

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

• autograph
• pen
• ink
• register
• subscribe
• author
• endorse
• scribble
• countersign
• indorse
• sign up
• sign on
• inscribe
• pencil (in)
• cosign
• scrawl
• scratch (out)
• notarize

sign

2 of 2

noun

ˈsīn 

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

• gesture
• signal
• wave
• posture
• gesticulation
• mime
• indication
• pantomime
• motion
• shrug
• body language
• beck
• sign language
• flourish
• beckon

2

as in symbol

a written or printed mark that is meant to convey information to the reader

an "and" sign

Synonyms & Similar Words

• symbol
• letter
• glyph
• icon
• character
• ikon
• numeral
• cipher
• hieroglyph
• pictograph
• pictogram
• rune
• ideogram

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

Recent Examples of sign

Verb

That leaves Rodón opening the season Thursday against the Milwaukee Brewers at Yankee Stadium followed by Fried, who the Yankees signed to an eight-year, $218 million deal, and Marcus Stroman, who was ticketed for the bullpen when camp started and none-too-pleased about it. —Barry M. Bloom, Sportico.com, 22 Mar. 2025

Voters who signed Wagoner’s petition also took aim at him for not following her recommendation, and raised concerns about the city’s decision to publicly support Ingram hours after the lawsuit was publicized. —Alex Brizee, Idaho Statesman, 22 Mar. 2025

Noun

There aren’t usually warning signs of osteoporosis, but noticing back pain or any significant changes to posture should tip you off to see a doctor, says Chowdhury. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 22 Mar. 2025

Below, nutritionists share a few more signs of not getting enough protein. —Lorena Meouchi, Vogue, 21 Mar. 2025

Phrases Containing sign

• Indian sign
• sign (up or on)
• sign on (for)
• sign up (for)