semaphore Definition
- 1a system of sending messages by holding the arms or two flags or poles in certain positions according to an alphabetic code
- 2a visual signaling device for conveying information at a distance
Using semaphore: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "semaphore" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The ship signaled its approach with semaphore flags.
Example
Semaphore towers were used to transmit messages across long distances.
Example
The semaphore system was widely used in the 19th century for communication between ships.
semaphore Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with semaphore
a series of stations, each with a semaphore tower, used for transmitting messages over long distances
Example
The semaphore line was used to send messages from London to Portsmouth.
a system of signs used to represent letters of the alphabet in semaphore communication
Example
The semaphore alphabet consists of 26 signs, one for each letter of the English alphabet.
Example
The semaphore code was used extensively by the French army during the Napoleonic Wars.
Origins of semaphore
from Greek 'sēma' meaning 'sign' and 'pherein' meaning 'to bear'
Summary: semaphore in Brief
The term 'semaphore' [ˈsɛməfɔː] refers to a system of sending messages using visual signals, such as flags or poles, according to an alphabetic code. It was widely used in the 19th century for communication between ships and across long distances. 'Semaphore' extends into phrases like 'semaphore line,' which refers to a series of stations used for transmitting messages, and 'semaphore alphabet,' which represents letters of the alphabet in semaphore communication.
