I. ˈbēkən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English beken, from Old English bēacen sign; akin to Old High German bouhhan sign and perhaps to Greek phainein to show — more at fancy
1. : a signal fire commonly on a hill, tower, or pole
2.
a. : a lighthouse or other signal mark ashore or in shoal water usually to guide mariners
b. : an unattended light or other signaling device for the guidance of aviators
c. : a fixed automatic radio transmitter emitting characteristic signals for the guidance of aircraft
d. : a traffic light or other signal serving a similar purpose
3.
a. Britain : a high hill with a conspicuous outlook
b. Britain : a watchtower or signaling station
c. : a pole that marks
4. : a very clear or conspicuous signal or indication : a monumental indication often serving as a source of light and inspiration
the beacon to the oppressed of all countries — Adrienne Koch
a beacon for creative artists the world over — A.R.Katz
5. heraldry : a fire basket usually depicted inflamed set up on a pole against which a ladder leans : cresset
II. verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
transitive verb
1.
a. : to light as a beacon
fires where the hedgers had been at work beaconed the darkness — Adrian Bell
b. : to give light to : inspire and guide : summon to achievement
one truth would dimly beacon me — Robert Browning
2. : to furnish or mark with a beacon
beacon the headland
intransitive verb
: to shine as a beacon
then Adventure beaconed from far off, and his heart leapt — Maurice Hewlett