# smoke signal

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/smoke-signal
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

An indirect message or indication, especially concerning a future event.

## Examples

- He sent a smoke signal that he might quit soon.
- The manager gave a smoke signal about potential layoffs during the meeting, leaving everyone feeling quite nervous.
- Although she remained silent during the negotiations, her subtle change in tone served as a smoke signal that she was preparing to reject the final offer.

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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.