noun “signal”
singular signal, plural signals or uncountable
- a way of communicating information, instructions, or warnings through movements or sounds
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The firefighter used a whistle as a signal for everyone to evacuate the building immediately.
- the electromagnetic action used by radios, TVs, telephones, and the internet to convey information or communication
The TV stopped working because it lost the signal during the storm.
- a device like a light or semaphore used to show something to someone
The traffic signal turned green, indicating it was safe to proceed.
- a sign or indication of something, often hinting at future events
The dark clouds in the sky were a signal that a storm was approaching.
- information that is useful and distinct from irrelevant or unrelated data
As data scientists, we try to distinguish the signal from the noise in complex data.
verb “signal”
infinitive signal; he signals; past tense signaled us, signalled uk; past part. signaled us, signalled uk; ger. signaling us, signalling uk
- to indicate something to someone using a signal
She signaled for help by waving her arms frantically.
- to indicate the existence or likelihood of something happening
The dark clouds signalled that a storm was approaching.
- to use lights or an arm movement to show that a vehicle will turn or change direction
He signaled left before merging into the other lane.
adjective “signal”
base form signal, non-gradable
- describing something or someone as outstanding in terms of rank, importance, or achievement
Her signal victory in the science competition earned her a scholarship to a prestigious university.