signifier: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Academic, Technical
Quick answer
What does “signifier” mean?
A thing that carries meaning or represents something else.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A thing that carries meaning or represents something else; a mark, symbol, word, or sound used to denote a concept.
In linguistics and semiotics, the physical form of a sign (e.g., a written or spoken word, an image) as distinct from the concept it represents (the 'signified'). It can also refer more broadly to any indicator or token of something.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Both treat it as a technical/academic term.
Connotations
In both varieties, strong association with academic discourse (semiotics, post-structuralism).
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in general use; slightly more common in UK academic humanities due to influence of Continental theory.
Grammar
How to Use “signifier” in a Sentence
[signifier] + of + [concept]The [signifier] + is + [adjective][signifier] + and + signifiedVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “signifier” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not applicable as a verb.
American English
- Not applicable as a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable as an adverb.
American English
- Not applicable as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- Not applicable as an adjective.
American English
- Not applicable as an adjective.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might be used metaphorically in branding: 'The logo acts as the primary signifier of quality.'
Academic
Common in linguistics, semiotics, cultural studies, and literary theory: 'Saussure analysed the relationship between the signifier and the signified.'
Everyday
Very rare. Would sound overly technical. 'Symbol' or 'sign' is used instead.
Technical
Core term in semiotics, used with precision to denote the material component of a sign.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “signifier”
- Using 'signifier' to mean 'meaning' (it's the form, not the meaning).
- Confusing 'signifier' with 'signature'.
- Using it in casual conversation where 'sign' or 'symbol' is appropriate.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A 'sign' is the whole unit of meaning, composed of two parts: the signifier (the form) and the signified (the concept). The signifier is one half of the sign.
Yes. This is called polysemy. For example, the signifier 'bank' can signify a financial institution or the side of a river.
No. A signifier can be any perceptible form: a sound, an image, a gesture (like a thumbs-up), a smell, or even an object.
It means there is no natural or logical connection between the signifier's form and its meaning. The word 'cat' has no inherent 'cat-ness'; it's a convention of English.
A thing that carries meaning or represents something else.
Signifier is usually formal, academic, technical in register.
Signifier: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɪɡ.nɪ.faɪ.ər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɪɡ.nə.faɪ.ər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Floating signifier (a signifier with no fixed meaning)”
- “Empty signifier (a signifier that can be filled with many meanings)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: SIGNIFIER is the part that does the SIGNIFYING (the word or image itself). The SIGNIFIED is what's SIGNIFIED (the idea).
Conceptual Metaphor
A SIGNIFIER IS A CONTAINER (for meaning), A SIGNIFIER IS A VEHICLE (carrying meaning), A SIGNIFIER IS A LABEL.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is 'signifier' a core technical term?