n.
Pronunciation: ' b ē -k ə n
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English beken, from Old English b ē acen sign; akin to Old High German bouhhan sign
Date: 14th century
1 : a signal fire commonly on a hill, tower, or pole
2 a : a lighthouse or other signal for guidance b : a radio transmitter emitting signals for guidance of aircraft
3 : a source of light or inspiration