Thesaurus results for SIGN

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

sign 1 of 2

verb

Definition of sign next

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

Relevance

sign

2 of 2

noun

ˈsīn

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

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

Examples 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

Another measure the president signed, S. 932, prohibits members of Congress convicted of crimes related to public corruption from receiving their retirement payments. —

Kathryn Watson, CBS News, 24 Dec. 2024 The Dolphins still have a 12 percent chance of making the playoffs, but Calais Campbell was in the locker room Sunday explaining how he might be released to sign with a contender once the postseason elimination becomes official. —

Josh Kendall, The Athletic, 24 Dec. 2024

Noun

Before the first faceoff or the first whistle or the first puck fired with intent on Monday night at Xcel Energy Center, Minnesota Wild fans got a sign of hope for better days ahead. —

Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 23 Dec. 2024 Yet after a slow start, there are signs of life from at least one of those players signed to make an impact. —

Matt Woosnam, The Athletic, 23 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sign

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sign

Verb

The prizes are witty: a toothbrush certified by the American Dental Association, a Matchbox car like the ones the Wet Bandits slip on, an eight-by-ten glossy of Joe Pesci autographed by Macaulay Culkin.

Erin Somers, Vulture, 19 Dec. 2024
She was shot while greeting her fans and graciously autographing the performance program at the end of the 3pm matinee show.

Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2024