# barber's sign

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/barbers-sign
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A standing pole and two wash-balls, historically used outside barber's shops.

## Examples

- The old shop still has a barber's sign outside.
- He walked down the historic street and noticed a traditional barber's sign hanging above the door.
- The vintage store owner decorated the entrance with an authentic barber's sign to capture the aesthetic of a bygone era.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.