The phrase "give the high sign" is usually spelled with the letters "g-i-v-e" and "h-i-g-h". The "g" is pronounced as /g/, the "i" sounds like /ɪ/, the "v" is pronounced as /v/, and the "e" is pronounced as /i/. The "h" in "high" is silent, and the following "i" is pronounced as /aɪ/. The "g" in "sign" is pronounced as /s/, the "i" as /aɪ/, and the "n" as /n/. Overall, the phrase is pronounced as /ɡɪv ðə haɪ saɪn/.
To "give the high sign" is an idiomatic expression meaning to discreetly signal or give a sign, typically through a gesture or a subtle indication, to convey some sort of information or coordination to someone else. This phrase is often used in informal contexts and is derived from the American slang of the early 20th century.
The term "high sign" refers to a gesture, usually involving a raised hand or arm, which is used to communicate a prearranged signal or to clandestinely coordinate an action or plan. It can be employed to silently convey a variety of messages, such as to indicate approaching danger, to instruct a partner in a secret plan, or to confirm a mutually understood agreement. The signal is typically given in a manner that does not attract attention or suspicion from others.
The concept behind "giving the high sign" is rooted in the need for clandestine communication, allowing individuals to relay information privately and reliably without attracting attention. It often requires a level of shared understanding or prior arrangement between the parties involved. The phrase has become ingrained in the everyday language as a way to describe discreetly signaling or coordinating actions, typically in informal or covert situations, where a public or direct communication would be undesirable or unnecessary.