# sign of the times

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/sign-of-the-times
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Something that is symbolic of an era.

## Examples

- Empty shops on the high street are a sign of the times.
- Seeing everyone work from home instead of in the office is a clear sign of the times.
- The rapid decline of traditional print media in favor of digital platforms serves as a poignant sign of the times.

## Origin

From Matthew 16:3.

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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.