sig·ni·fi·er 
(sĭgnə-fī′ər)
(sĭgnə-fī′ər)n.
1. One that signifies.
2. Linguistics A linguistic unit or pattern, such as a succession of speech sounds, written symbols, or gestures, that conveys meaning; a linguistic sign. The signifier of the concept "tree" is, in English, the string of speech sounds (t), (r), and (ē); in German, (b), (ou), and (m).
[Translation of French signifiant, present participle of signifier, to signify.]