/ ˈsɪgnɪfaɪ; NAmE / verb ( sig·ni·fies , sig·ni·fy·ing , sig·ni·fied , sig·ni·fied ) ( formal )
1.
to be a sign of sth
SYN mean :
[ vn ]
This decision signified a radical change in their policies.
[ v that ]
This mark signifies that the products conform to an approved standard.
The white belt signifies that he's an absolute beginner.
2.
to do sth to make your feelings, intentions, etc. known :
[ vn ]
She signified her approval with a smile.
[ v that ]
He nodded to signify that he agreed.
3.
[ v ] (usually used in questions or negative sentences) to be important or to matter :
His presence no longer signified.
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : from Old French signifier , from Latin significare indicate, portend, from signum token.