signifier

[ sig-nuh-fahy-er ]

noun

1. a person or thing that signifies.
2. Semiotics. something, such as an arrangement of sounds or symbols, an object, or an action, which constitutes a pattern or unit, and which communicates meaning. Compare signified ( def ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of signifier¹

First recorded in 1525–35; signify + -er ¹

Example Sentences

For one, he is very comfortable in English—a key signifier of privilege in India—and occasionally drops US pop culture references that suggest he’s older than many other such workers.

From Quartz

She said the way some companies rely on mainstream cultural signifiers can stray easily into stereotyping.

From Digiday

Sneakers, which have been linked to fashion and entertainment for decades, have become signifiers of cultural relevance and common collectors’ items.

From Washington Post

He has feelings for the letters, for the signifiers of Selin, but he doesn’t think he can actually access Selin herself.

From Vox

That’s why we have signs — those combinations of signifier and signified.

From Vox

In the '60s South, long hair was a signifier and a deal breaker for men.

From The Daily Beast

There is an even more doleful cultural signifier in all this: the mess that invariably follows the big announcement.

From The Daily Beast

The “it” bag was born–a talisman of stylishness and a signifier of insider savvy.

From The Daily Beast

In all travels the Moon is to be considered, for she is a general signifier of journeys, whether by sea or land.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• explanation
• expression
• gesture
• hint
• implication
• inkling
• manifestation
• omen
• proof
• reminder
• sign
• signal
• suggestion
• symptom
• trace
• warning