Spanish word

signo

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈsiɣno/

Meaning

  • masculine nounsign

Example

Este signo indica peligro.

This sign indicates danger.

Illustration for signo (sign)

More examples

Ese gesto es un signo de afecto.

That gesture is a sign of affection.

Core concept

Clue or hint that something exists or has occurred.

Common phrases

  • signo de alarma

    warning sign

  • signo de afecto

    sign of affection

  • signo distintivo

    distinctive sign

Similar words

símbolo: Graphic emblem that stands for an idea or abstract concept.
señal: Signal or gesture that conveys intent, attention, or direction.
marca: Mark or logo on a product that identifies its maker or brand.
indicio: Piece of evidence that suggests the existence of an event or condition.

Definition in Spanish

Indicio o señal que sugiere la existencia o la ocurrencia de algo, como un síntoma, un aviso o una marca reconocible.

Word origin

From Latin signum 'mark' or 'token', the Spanish word entered the language with the broad sense of a mark or cue that points to an underlying fact.

Usage tips

  • In medical contexts 'signo' denotes an objectively observed finding while 'síntoma' names a patient's subjective complaint, and in casual speech speakers prefer 'señal' or 'gesto' for everyday signals.

Other meanings

  • symbolnoun
  • signalnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word