significatory
- noun
- /sɪɡˈnɪfɪˌkeɪtəri/
- The badge on his uniform served as a significatory of his rank in the organization.
Examples
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The red light acted as a significatory for drivers to stop at the intersection.
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In ancient cultures, the eagle was often a significatory of power and freedom.
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The significatory role of the flag is often overlooked.
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In literature, a dove is a significatory symbol of peace.
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The badge on his uniform serves as a significatory of his authority and position within the team.
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In many myths, the dragon is a significatory of danger and transformation.
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The red light was a significatory at the crosswalk, indicating that it was time for pedestrians to stop.
Synonyms
∞
3.2
An event that shows something is happening or will happen
586
3.5
An object that stands for an idea or feeling
445
3.9
A sign that shows something is true or likely
89
2.0
A sign or symbol that shows who something belongs to
5
7.7
A symbol or word that stands for something else
1
6.3
A visible thing like a flag that stands for an idea you cannot see
1
6.4
A person or object that stands for an idea with deeper meaning
1
8.8
A thing that shows something about a person or situation
1
7.4
A person or thing that shows an idea as a human, for example justice
How Indicative
Surface Forms
Morphology
significatory = signify (transparent) = signific + atory
The noun meaning 'a person or thing that signifies' follows directly from the base 'signify' plus a relational/agentive '-atory' formation that marks relation or function.
Etymology
Significatory comes from the Latin significare, built from sign ('sign') and -ficare ('to make'). Think of it like a signal: a significatory is a person or thing that 'makes a sign' or shows something, for example a red light that tells drivers to stop.