high sign: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, idiomatic
Quick answer
What does “high sign” mean?
A subtle, often quick and discreet signal (like a hand gesture, nod, or look) used to communicate a message or give a secret warning.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A subtle, often quick and discreet signal (like a hand gesture, nod, or look) used to communicate a message or give a secret warning.
An informal, non-verbal cue used to alert someone or coordinate an action without drawing attention.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the phrase. It originated in American English (early 20th century).
Connotations
Both maintain the connotation of a covert signal. No significant difference.
Frequency
Slightly more common in American English due to its origin, but overall low frequency in both.
Grammar
How to Use “high sign” in a Sentence
give [someone] the high signwait for the high sign [from someone]get/receive the high signVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “high sign” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The phrase is not used as a verb.
American English
- The phrase is not used as a verb.
adverb
British English
- The phrase is not used as an adverb.
American English
- The phrase is not used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- The phrase is not used as an adjective.
American English
- The phrase is not used as an adjective.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might humorously refer to a subtle sign to start a presentation or approve a deal in an informal meeting.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Describing a discreet signal between friends in a social situation (e.g., to leave a party).
Technical
Not used in formal technical contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “high sign”
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'He high-signed me'). It's a noun phrase.
- Confusing it with 'high five'.
- Spelling as one word: 'highsign'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a two-word, open compound noun. The correct spelling is 'high sign'.
While 'give' is the most common collocation, 'make' or 'send' a high sign can be used, though less frequently.
A 'high sign' is a specific type of signal—it is informal, often secretive, and implies a pre-arranged understanding between the parties.
Yes, but its frequency is low. It is used for stylistic effect to evoke a sense of secrecy or conspiracy, often in storytelling or informal speech.
A subtle, often quick and discreet signal (like a hand gesture, nod, or look) used to communicate a message or give a secret warning.
High sign is usually informal, idiomatic in register.
High sign: in British English it is pronounced /ˌhaɪ ˈsaɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌhaɪ ˈsaɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “give someone the nod”
- “a wink and a nudge”
- “get the green light”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a spy lifting their hand HIGH to make a secret SIGN to their partner across the room.
Conceptual Metaphor
COMMUNICATION IS A VISUAL SIGNAL (often secretive).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most accurate description of a 'high sign'?