Definition of the word signify

The origin of the word "signify" can be traced back to the Middle English language where it was spelled as "signefen," derived from the Old French word "signifien," meaning "to show as a sign" or "to indicate." It is rooted in the Latin word "significare," meaning "to make sign" or "to indicate." In Latin, "signum" meaning "sign" or "mark" is combined with "ficere" meaning "to make" to form "significare," indicating that initially, "signify" referred to the obvious and tangible aspect of signaling or communicating information. The term also has connections to the words "signal" and "symbol" and their respective meanings of communicating through visible or sensory displays, or representing an object, action or idea by a symbol or figurative indication. As language evolves, the meaning of "signify" has broadened to include communicating a concept, emotion, or intention verbally, nonverbally, or symbolically.