# signify

/ˈsɪɡnəˌfaɪ/ (US) · /sˈɪɡnɪfˌaɪ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/signify
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to mean or represent

verb · CEFR B2 · Formal

to be a sign of something or to mean something.

For teachers: to be a symbol or sign of; to represent a particular meaning or concept.

- In many cultures, a white flag is used to signify that you want to stop fighting.
- The use of specific floral motifs in the tapestry was intended to signify the union of the two royal houses.

### 2. to show a feeling or intention

verb · CEFR B2 · Formal

to make your feelings, intentions, or decisions known by a sign or action.

For teachers: to make known or communicate a feeling, intention, or decision through a gesture, signal, or statement.

- She nodded her head to signify that she agreed with the plan.
- The chairman requested that all those in favour signify their approval by raising their right hand.

### 3. to be important

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal · Literary

to matter or be important; usually used in questions or negative sentences.

For teachers: to be of importance or consequence; typically employed in negative or interrogative constructions.

- He said that the small delay did not signify in the long run.
- Whether the document was signed on Tuesday or Wednesday does not signify, provided the terms remain unchanged.

## Examples

- A red light signifies that you must stop.
- In many cultures, nodding your head is used to signify agreement or understanding during a conversation.
- The sudden drop in barometric pressure may signify an approaching storm, prompting the sailors to secure the deck and prepare for heavy winds.

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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.