signify

[sig-nuh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

signified, signifying 

1. to make known by signs, speech, or action.

   Synonyms: indicate, express, signal

2. to be a sign of; mean; portend.

   Synonyms: imply, betoken, denote, indicate, represent

verb (used without object)

signified, signifying 

1. to be of importance or consequence.

signify

/ ˈsɪɡnɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to indicate, show, or suggest

2. (tr) to imply or portend

   the clouds signified the coming storm

3. (tr) to stand as a symbol, sign, etc (for)

4. informal,  (intr) to be significant or important

Other Word Forms

• signifier noun
• signifiable adjective
• unsignifiable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of signify¹

First recorded in 1200–50; Middle English signifien, from Old French signifier, from Latin significāre “to make a sign, indicate, mention, denote”; equivalent to sign + -ify

Word History and Origins

Origin of signify¹

C13: from Old French signifier, from Latin significāre, from signum a sign, mark + facere to make

Example Sentences

The two sides have an unresolved and long-standing territorial dispute – that signifies a much broader and deeper rivalry.

From BBC

Vatau's kick was greeted with huge celebrations from the players and supporters to signify their return on the biggest stage.

From BBC

In particular, they changed phrasing saying that the purpose of displaying the Israeli flag is to signify support for the Jewish state to saying the purpose is to signify support for the Jewish community.

From Los Angeles Times

In 2025, white cabinets and grey floors signify a home with no pesky outré design choices to hinder the viewer’s ability to picture themselves in that kitchen.

From Salon

The fans waited until the fifth minute to take their seats - the sight of an empty away end designed to signify the depth of feeling.

From BBC

Related Words

• add up to 
• bespeak 
• convey 
• imply 
• manifest 
• portend 
• proclaim 
• represent 
• spell 
• stand for 
• suggest 
• symbolize