significatory
1
9.7
- adjective
- /sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəˌtɔri/
- The artist used colors and shapes that had a significatory role in conveying emotions.
Examples
-
These render obvious the significatory function of beadwork, but the meanings of the written statements were often unclear, even within the territory of their creation.
Academic text (2003) -
The modernist binary of language or the world here gives way to a materiality that spurns both the representational and the significatory dimensions of the linguistic sign.
Academic text (1995) -
How then, finally, to view, to read the significatory systems in beadwork?
Academic text (2003) -
In literature, symbols often serve a significatory purpose, representing deeper themes.
-
The flags displayed at the ceremony were significatory of the nation's history and values.
Synonyms
156
4.3
A way of showing meaning using a color, object or action
61
4.7
Showing a sign that something is happening
2
4.9
Having a hidden meaning often shown by a look or pause
1
7.3
That shows an idea by a sign or object
1
9.7
Showing clearly that something is true or important
1
8.9
Acting as a symbol of an idea like peace or courage
How Indicative
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Significatory comes from the Latin significare, where sign means 'sign' and -ficare means 'to make'. So something significatory 'makes a sign' or shows 'meaning', which is why we use it for things that indicate or point to something.