SIGN Meaning and
Definition
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A sign is a visual or auditory symbol or representation that conveys meaning or communicates information to an observer. Signs are commonly used to provide guidance, convey instructions, or indicate the presence of something. They play a crucial role in human communication and can be found in various forms.
In its visual form, a sign can be a physical object such as a plaque, board, or poster that displays words, symbols, or images to convey a particular message. These signs can be found in public places, on roads, in buildings, or in nature reserves, among other settings. They are designed to be easily recognized and understood by individuals with different levels of literacy or language skills.
In an auditory sense, a sign can refer to a sound, signal, or tone that alerts or notifies individuals about a particular event or condition. Examples of auditory signs include sirens, alarms, or even spoken words.
Moreover, a sign can also refer to an indication or evidence of something's existence, occurrence, or presence. It can be a visible clue, gesture, or indication that suggests a particular meaning or implies a certain conclusion. Signs in this context can be observed in various domains such as scientific research, medical diagnosis, or investigative work.
In summary, a sign is a visual or auditory symbol or representation that serves the purpose of conveying information, indicating something's existence, or guiding individuals in various contexts.
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1. A symptom, especially a phenomenon, already present or produced by some maneuver, indicating a certain disease or morbid state. 2. An abbreviation or symbol. 3. Signature (3).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• That by which a thing is known; a token; a wonder; a miracle; a symbol; a gesture instead of words; any significant mark; something intended to serve as a proof or type; indication; something set up on a house to show the tenant's occupation; a visible representation; in astron., the twelfth part of the ecliptic; in alg., a character or symbol indicating the relation between quantities; in med., anything by which the presence of disease is made known.
• To attach one's name to; to ratify by signature or seal; to indicate by a sign.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for SIGN *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for SIGN
Etymology of SIGN
The word sign originated from the Latin word signum, which originally meant signal, mark, or indication. It was derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *sekw- meaning to follow or to mark. Over time, the meaning of signum expanded to refer to various forms of visual markers or symbols used to convey a message or communicate information. The word eventually entered Old English as segn and later evolved into the modern English word sign.
Idioms with the word SIGN
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sign sm up (for sth)
The idiom "sign (someone) up (for something)" means to enroll or register someone for a particular activity, program, or membership, usually without their prior knowledge or consent.
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sign up
The definition of the idiom "sign up" is to enroll, register, or join something, typically by providing one's name or details on a list or form, indicating one's willingness or intention to participate or be involved.
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sign of the times
The idiom "sign of the times" refers to something that reflects the characteristics or prevalent trends of a particular era or period. It signifies an indication or symbol of the changes, attitudes, or social, cultural, and political factors that are distinctive to a specific time in history.
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the Indian sign
The idiom "the Indian sign" refers to a situation or an action that brings bad luck or misfortune. It is often used to describe a series of unfortunate events or circumstances that seem to consistently occur to a person or group. This idiom originated from a stereotypical belief held by certain cultures that Native Americans possessed mystical or supernatural powers, including the ability to curse or bring bad luck to others. However, it is important to note that this idiom perpetuates stereotypes and is considered quite outdated and offensive.
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sign (one's) life away
The idiom "sign (one's) life away" means to make a binding agreement or contract that relinquishes control or freedom over one's actions, often suggesting that the consequences may be severe or long-lasting. It implies a complete surrender of personal rights or autonomy in exchange for something desired or advantageous in the immediate moment.
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sign sth for sm
The idiom "sign something for someone" typically means to autograph or write one's signature on an item specifically for a person. It refers to the act of personalizing an object, often as a gesture of goodwill or to add value to the item.
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sign sm in
The idiom "sign sm in" typically refers to the act of officially registering or admitting someone into a particular place, event, or organization by obtaining their signature or a formal documentation.
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sign sth in
The idiom "sign something in" means to formally acknowledge or record one's attendance or entry into a place or event by signing a document or register. It implies an act of authentication or acceptance of a commitment, often in a professional or official context.
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sign over sth
The idiom "sign over something" typically refers to the act of transferring ownership, control, or rights of something to someone else by signing a legal document. It is often used when one party relinquishes their claim or authority over a particular item, property, or responsibility to another party through the act of signing a contract or agreement.
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sign (up) with sm or sth
The idiom "sign (up) with someone or something" means to officially agree to work for, join, or be associated with a particular person, organization, or thing by putting one's signature on a contract or agreement. It often refers to voluntarily committing oneself to a professional, business, or contractual relationship.
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sign someone's death warrant
The idiom "sign someone's death warrant" means to engage in actions or make decisions that are likely to cause someone's downfall or demise, either literally or metaphorically. It can refer to situations where someone's fate, future, or well-being is put in serious jeopardy or is doomed due to certain actions, choices, or circumstances.
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sign off on
The idiom "sign off on" means to officially approve, authorize, or give permission to something, usually by signing a document or making an official statement of agreement. It implies that someone in authority has provided their endorsement or consent to a particular action, decision, or project.
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sign in (or out)
The idiom "sign in" or "sign out" refers to the action of formally registering one's presence or departure by writing one's name or providing other necessary information on a register or official document. It is commonly used in contexts such as attending a meeting, entering a building or establishment, or logging into a system or website for record-keeping purposes. The phrase signifies following a procedure or protocol to record one's arrival or departure.
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take/sign the pledge
The idiom "take/sign the pledge" refers to making a formal commitment or promise to adhere to a certain set of rules, guidelines, or principles, often related to abstaining from a specific behavior or substance. It typically involves signing a written declaration or contract as a symbol of one's dedication to upholding the pledge.
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sign for sth
The idiom "sign for something" typically refers to the act of acknowledging the receipt or acceptance of something, usually by putting one's signature on a document or form. It implies taking responsibility or ownership for a particular item, such as a package, delivery, or legal agreement.
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sign (sb) up
The definition of the idiom "sign (sb) up" is to enroll, register, or enlist someone, typically for a particular activity, program, membership, or service.
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sign for sm
The idiom "sign for sm" typically refers to accepting or taking responsibility for someone or something. It means to take on the duty, obligation, or commitment associated with someone or something. It can also indicate agreeing to be in charge or oversee someone or something.
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sign one's own death warrant
The idiom "sign one's own death warrant" means to do or say something that will lead to one's own downfall, destruction, or ruin. It refers to an action or decision that is self-destructive or detrimental to one's own interests, often resulting in severe consequences or negative outcomes.
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sign on the dotted line
The idiom "sign on the dotted line" means to officially agree to or commit to something, usually by signing a contract or legal document. It implies consenting to the terms and conditions without further negotiation or hesitation.
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sign out of sm place
The idiom "sign out of some place" typically means to formally log out or disengage from a location, system, or platform where one has been authorized to access or use. It implies the act of indicating or registering one's departure or cessation of activity in a specific place or environment. It could apply to physical spaces like offices or establishments where sign-in and sign-out procedures are customary, as well as virtual platforms, websites, or applications where a user needs to log out or exit their session to ensure privacy and security.
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sign away
The idiom "sign away" means to relinquish or give up one's rights, ownership, or control over something by signing a legal document or agreement. It typically implies that the action of signing the document will have significant consequences or implications, often resulting in the loss of certain privileges or control.
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sign/take the pledge
The idiom "sign/take the pledge" refers to making a serious commitment or promise to follow certain principles, beliefs, or behaviors. It often involves formally agreeing, usually in writing, to adhere to a specific code of conduct or to support a particular cause or movement.
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sign in
The idiom "sign in" refers to the action of officially recording one's arrival, typically by writing one's name on a document or entering information on a registration form when entering a place or event. It is commonly used in contexts such as hotels, conferences, schools, or any situation where individuals are required to provide their identification or acknowledge their presence.
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sign sm out of sm place
The idiom "sign someone out of somewhere" refers to the act of officially recording someone's departure or exit from a particular place, usually by signing a document or register. It is typically used when someone has been temporarily or permanently released or discharged from a location or institution.
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sign sth out of sm place
The idiom "sign something out of some place" typically refers to the act of officially recording or authorizing the removal of an item or device from a designated location through the process of signing a document or logbook. It implies that the individual is taking responsibility for borrowing, using, or taking something temporarily from the specified place.
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a sign of the times
The idiom "a sign of the times" refers to a current occurrence, phenomenon, or situation that represents or reflects the prevailing attitudes, values, beliefs, or conditions of a particular period or era. It signifies a change or development that is indicative of the present time and its characteristics.
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sign sth away
The idiom "sign sth away" refers to the act of legally relinquishing or giving up one's rights, ownership, or control over something by signing a document or agreement. It implies that one agrees to transfer or surrender their authority, possession, or claim, often in exchange for compensation or as part of a contractual arrangement.
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be a sign of the times
The idiom "be a sign of the times" refers to something that represents or reflects the prevailing beliefs, attitudes, or circumstances of a particular period or era. It indicates that a specific event, occurrence, attitude, or trend is a typical characteristic or consequence of the present time.
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sign your own death warrant
The idiom "sign your own death warrant" means to do or say something that will ultimately lead to one's own downfall, ruin, or demise. It refers to actions or decisions that are self-destructive or harmful, often resulting in severe consequences for oneself.
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sign away sth
To "sign away something" means to relinquish or give up a right, possession, or claim by signing a document or agreement. It suggests willingly surrendering or transferring it through a legal process.
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sign on
The idiom "sign on" generally refers to making a commitment or agreement to join or participate in something, typically a venture, organization, or team. It implies formally aligning oneself with a cause, project, or group by signing a contract, agreement, or some form of legal document.
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sign off (on sth)
The idiom "sign off on (something)" means to approve, authorize, or give one's formal consent or agreement to something. It usually refers to the act of signing a document to signify approval or agreement.
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high sign
The idiom "high sign" refers to a secret or covert signal or gesture that is used to convey a message or indicate a prearranged plan or understanding between two or more people. It is often done using subtle hand or body movements, usually to avoid detection or to communicate discreetly.
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sign sm up (with sm or sth)
The idiom "sign (someone) up (with someone or something)" typically means to enroll or register someone for a particular organization, activity, or service. It refers to the act of officially signing a person up for a membership, contract, or agreement with the specified entity.
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sign out
The idiom "sign out" typically refers to the action of logging off or ending a session on a digital or virtual platform, such as a website, software, or electronic device. It indicates the act of formally indicating one's departure or completion of a task.
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sign off
The idiom "sign off" means to formally or officially conclude or finish something, especially in regards to ending a communication, a broadcast, or a task. It can also refer to giving one's approval or consent to something before it can proceed.
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sign own death warrant
The idiom "sign own death warrant" means to engage in an action or make a decision that will almost certainly lead to severe consequences, often resulting in one's downfall or demise. It implies that the person is knowingly and willingly setting themselves up for failure or a terrible outcome.
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sign up (for sth)
The idiom "sign up (for sth)" means to register or enroll oneself for a particular activity, event, or program. It typically involves filling out some form or providing necessary information to become a participant or member.
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sign on (with sm or sth) (as sth)
The idiom "sign on (with someone or something) (as something)" refers to the act of officially joining or becoming a member or employee of a particular person, group, or organization, often in a professional capacity or job role. It indicates an agreement or commitment to work or cooperate with someone or something in a specified role or capacity.
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the high sign
The idiom "the high sign" refers to a subtle or secret signal, often conveyed through a gesture or a look, which signals approval, agreement, permission, or acknowledgment between two or more individuals. It signifies a nonverbal agreement or understanding that allows for a certain action or decision to be taken without explicitly stating it.
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sign sth over (to sm)
The idiom "sign something over to someone" refers to the act of transferring ownership, legal rights, or authority of something to someone else by signing a document or contract. It signifies giving up control or responsibility for the mentioned thing to another person or entity.
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under the sign of
"Under the sign of" is an idiom that means being influenced or affected by a particular quality, characteristic, or symbol. It often refers to being in a situation that is strongly associated with or marked by a specific attribute or aspect. It can also imply being under the influence or control of something or someone.
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sign sm on
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com·mem·o·ra·tive sign
A commemorative sign is a physical marker, usually a plaque or engraving, that is used to remember or honor a person, event, or significant location. These signs are typically placed in public spaces to provide historical context or information for the public.
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A·bra·hams sign
Abraham's sign is an idiomatic expression used to describe a physical sign or symptom that a person exhibits when they press their hand against their abdomen in the area of the appendix and then quickly release the pressure, causing pain or discomfort that signifies appendicitis. It is named after Dr. Albert Abraham, who first described this diagnostic test in 1906.
Similar spelling words for SIGN
Conjugate verb Sign
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have signed
you
would have signed
he/she/it
would have signed
we
would have signed
they
would have signed
I
would have sign
you
would have sign
he/she/it
would have sign
we
would have sign
they
would have sign
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been signing
you
would have been signing
he/she/it
would have been signing
we
would have been signing
they
would have been signing
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would sign
you
would sign
he/she/it
would sign
we
would sign
they
would sign
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be signing
you
would be signing
he/she/it
would be signing
we
would be signing
they
would be signing
FUTURE
I
will sign
you
will sign
he/she/it
will sign
we
will sign
they
will sign
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be signing
you
will be signing
he/she/it
will be signing
we
will be signing
they
will be signing
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have signed
you
will have signed
he/she/it
will have signed
we
will have signed
they
will have signed
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been signing
you
will have been signing
he/she/it
will have been signing
we
will have been signing
they
will have been signing
IMPERATIVE
you
sign
we
let´s sign
to sign
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was signing
you
were signing
he/she/it
was signing
we
were signing
they
were signing
PAST PARTICIPLE
signed
PAST PERFECT
I
had signed
you
had signed
he/she/it
had signed
we
had signed
they
had signed
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been signing
you
had been signing
he/she/it
had been signing
we
had been signing
they
had been signing
PRESENT
I
sign
you
sign
he/she/it
signs
we
sign
they
sign
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am signing
you
are signing
he/she/it
is signing
we
are signing
they
are signing
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
signing
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have signed
you
have signed
he/she/it
has signed
we
have signed
they
have signed
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been signing
you
have been signing
he/she/it
has been signing
we
have been signing
they
have been signing
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
sign
SIMPLE PAST
I
signed
you
signed
he/she/it
signed
we
signed
they
signed
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