signum Definition
- 1a sign, signal, or indication
- 2a military standard or banner
Using signum: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "signum" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The signum for the start of the race was a gunshot.
Example
The soldiers marched under the signum of their legion.
Example
The rising temperature is a signum of climate change.
signum Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for signum
Phrases with signum
a custom in medieval Europe where a lord would place his hand on a vassal's hand as a symbol of the vassal's loyalty and service
Example
The signum manus ceremony was an important ritual in feudal society.
signum temporis
a Latin phrase meaning 'a sign of the times', used to describe a cultural or societal phenomenon that reflects the current state of affairs
Example
The popularity of social media is a signum temporis of our digital age.
signum crucis
a Latin phrase meaning 'sign of the cross', a gesture made by Catholics and some other Christians by tracing a cross with the right hand
Example
The priest made the signum crucis over the congregation during the benediction.
Origins of signum
from Latin 'signum', meaning 'mark' or 'token'
Summary: signum in Brief
'Signum' [ˈsɪɡnəm] refers to a sign, signal, or indication, such as a gunshot signaling the start of a race, or a rising temperature indicating climate change. It can also refer to a military standard or banner, like the signum of a legion. Phrases like 'signum manus' and 'signum temporis' denote cultural or historical customs and phenomena.
