What does "significance" mean?

1. (importance) the quality of being important or having a big effect on the future. 2. (meaning) the special or hidden meaning of something, like a look or a word.

How do you use "significance"?

Often used with the preposition 'of' as in 'the significance of the event'. Commonly used to describe the 'hidden' meaning behind a gesture or symbol.

significance

US //səɡˈnɪfɪkəns// UK //sɪɡnˈɪfɪkəns// sig·nif·i·cance

1 importance (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the quality of being important or having a big effect on the future.

the quality of being worthy of attention; importance or consequence.

Example

Scientists are still trying to understand the full significance of this new discovery.

Example

The historical significance of the treaty cannot be overstated, as it fundamentally redrew the borders of Eastern Europe for the next century.

Usage

Often used with the preposition 'of' as in 'the significance of the event'.
- insignificance
- triviality
2 meaning (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal

the special or hidden meaning of something, like a look or a word.

the meaning or import of something, especially when it is not immediately obvious.

Example

She gave him a look full of significance, but he didn't understand it.

Example

The poet uses the recurring image of the raven to convey a deeper significance regarding the nature of grief and memory.

Usage

Commonly used to describe the 'hidden' meaning behind a gesture or symbol.

Origin

Inherited from Middle English significaunce, from Middle French significance, from Old French significance, from Latin significantia. Doublet of signifiance.