sign1 nounsign2 verb
signsign1 /saɪn/ ●●● S1 W1 noun 
WORD ORIGINsign1
Origin:
1200-1300 Old French signe, from Latin signum ‘mark, sign, image, seal’EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- A neon sign flashed on and off in the window.
- A score of 80 or more is a sign that you are doing very well.
- a stop sign
- Didn't you see the "No smoking" sign?
- He raised his hand in a sign of greeting.
- Mardas threw his hands in the air - a sign to his supporters that victory was theirs.
- Out in the desert there are hardly any road signs along the highway.
- Police searched the house thoroughly but found no signs of a break-in.
- Stan has some of the early signs of heart disease.
- The rise in consumer spending is an encouraging sign that the economy may be recovering.
- Therapy should begin when the first signs are noticed.
- There was a big sign above the entrance.
- Turn left and then follow the signs till you get to the freeway.
- What's your sign?
- What did that sign say?
- When Emma offers to help you it's a sure sign that she wants something from you!
- When the teacher puts her finger to her lips, it's a sign for you all to be quiet.
- Where's the percentage sign on this keyboard?
- Write your answer after the equals sign.
- You've forgotten to put the dollar sign before the total amount.
- A sign was put up in order to remind staff whenever I was on duty.
- And on this sign, the same mug of beer, yellow and foaming.
- But this is not what has happened: at least, my data shows no sign of it.
- Exports are lower, household spending is weakening and businesses show signs of losing faith in their investment plans.
- Here is one instance of a sign or message being separated from emotion or content.
- If the individual can not feel the tiny pricking sensation, it is a sign of faulty nerve function in the feet.
- Its first sign is purple marks on the skin, but as it progresses it kills.
- Other new signs posted to describe scenery have been desecrated or struck down.
THESAURUS
[countable] an event, fact etc that shows that something is happening or that something is true or exists: · The curtains were still drawn and there was no sign of activity.· A score of 80 or more is a sign that you are doing very well.
[countable] a sign. Indication is more formal than sign: · Recently there have been several indications of improving relations.· There was no indication the killings were related to the drug trade.
[uncountable] facts or signs that show clearly that something exists or is true, especially something that you are trying to prove: · Scientists are hoping to find evidence that there was once life on Mars.· There was not enough evidence to convict him of the murder.
[countable] a sign that someone has an illness or that a serious problem exists: · The first symptoms are tiredness and loss of weight.· Is this a symptom of the decay of Western civilization?
[countable] a sign that shows you what is happening or what is true – used about a process, or about the state or level of something: · There are a number of indicators of economic slowdown.· The tests are considered a good indicator of intelligence.
[countable] a sign that shows that you should do something, or that you have a particular attitude: · Severe chest pain is a warning signal that cannot be ignored.· Legalizing drugs could send the wrong signal to young people.
[countable] a sign, especially that you respect or honour someone: · People stood in silence as a mark of respect.· It was a mark of her popularity that so many colleagues and friends attended the presentation.
Longman Language Activatora written sign that gives instructions or information · There was a big sign above the entrance.· A neon sign flashed on and off in the window.· Didn't you see the "No smoking" sign?· Turn left and then follow the signs till you get to the freeway.traffic/road sign (=a sign that gives information to drivers) · Out in the desert there are hardly any road signs along the highway.
especially British a piece of paper giving instructions or information, that is put in a place where people can see it: · The details of the trip are on that notice over there.put up a notice: · I'll put up a notice about the meeting on the bulletin board.take down a notice: · Now that the sale is over someone needs to take down the notices.
a large printed piece of paper that is put on a wall in a public place, and that gives information about something that is going to happen, for example a film or concert: · Sandra collects old movie posters.· Ernst's supporters have plastered his election posters over walls and cars.poster for: · There are posters for the Van Gogh exhibition everywhere.
a picture or shape that has a particular meaning a picture or shape that has a particular meaning, and that is well known and often used: · You've forgotten to put the dollar sign before the total amount.· Where's the percentage sign on this keyboard?
a picture, shape, or design that has a particular meaning or represents an idea: · The walls were covered with magical symbols.· For several years Prince used a symbol instead of his name.symbol of: · The dove is a symbol of peace.symbol for: · The ancient Egyptians had no symbol for "zero."
a sign that has been designed to represent an organization or product: · The baseball team has a new logo.· His costume had the Superman logo across the chest.· You can buy bags with the company logo on them in the gift shop.
a picture of an object, flower, animal etc that is used to represent a country or organization: · Scotland's emblem is the thistle.· The jacket had a tiny Olympic emblem on the pocket.emblem of: · The hammer and sickle is the emblem of the Communist Party.
shapes, pictures, decorations etc that represent a powerful group, especially a military organization: · Someone had spray-painted gang insignia on his car.· They collect clothing with FBI insignia on it so they can pretend to be federal agents.
a movement or sound that you make to tell someone something a movement that you make in order to tell someone something: · He raised his hand in a sign of greeting.sign (that): · Mardas threw his hands in the air - a sign to his supporters that victory was theirs.sign for somebody to do something: · When the teacher puts her finger to her lips, it's a sign for you all to be quiet.
a sound or movement that you make in order to tell someone to do something: give a signal: · Don't start yet - wait until I give the signal.signal to do something: · The soldiers were waiting for the signal to start firing.signal for somebody to do something: · When I nod my head, that's the signal for you to start playing the music.hand signals: · Stock brokers use roughly 300 hand signals on the trading floor.
a movement of your hands, arms, or head that shows how you feel, especially when you are very worried or angry: gesture of: · Jim raised his hands in a gesture of despair.make a gesture: · Someone in another car started making gestures and pointing at our tires.make a rude gesture: · The fight started when one of the fans made a rude gesture at a player.
a slight downward movement you make with your head to say 'yes' to something or to say that something can begin: · I asked if he was hungry, and he responded with a nod.give (somebody) a nod: · Daniels gave a slight nod, and Bill started to speak.
to make a movement or sound to tell someone something to make a movement, especially with your hand, in order to tell someone something: · I'll make a sign when I'm ready.· The President made a sign to indicate that he wanted to leave.make a sign (that): · From across the room Marla made a sign that she had seen me come in.
to make a movement or sound in order to give instructions or information: · A sailor began signalling with two flags.signal to: · Graham finished his drink and signalled to the waiter.signal that: · An official signalled that it was time for the race to begin.signal somebody to do something: · Slowly he inched around the corner, signalling for the others to follow.
to make a previously agreed sign that tells someone that they should start doing something: · When I give the signal, I want you all to start clapping.give (somebody) the signal to do something: · The dog waited patiently until his master gave him the signal to eat.
to move your hand or arm from one side to the other, for example in order to get someone's attention or to tell them something: · She continued to wave as the car drove out of sight.wave at: · Who's that waving at you?wave to: · The emperor waved to the crowd from the palace balcony.wave for somebody to do something: · Yolanda waved for us to come over.wave somebody through/on (=wave to show someone that they can go through or continue their journey): · The customs officer at the border waved us through.wave goodbye (=wave to someone who is leaving): · Her parents stood in the doorway and waved goodbye.
to quickly close and open one eye, in order to show that you are joking or that you share a secret with someone: · Ben grinned at his father and winked.wink at: · "The weather's so nice, I'm thinking of calling in sick tomorrow," she said, winking at me.
to make a slight downward movement with your head to say 'yes' or 'hello' or to say that something can begin: · Rob nodded his head in agreement.· "Has he really left you?" I asked. Josie nodded miserably.nod/nod your head at/to: · The two men nodded to each other, as if they'd met before.nod/nod your head for somebody to do something: · She nodded for Mike to lead the way.
to use a movement of your hand, especially to tell someone to go to a place or to emphasize your meaning when you are saying something: · The man was gesturing wildly, but we couldn't understand what he wanted.gesture to/at: · "Please sit down," said Winters, gesturing at the chair facing his own.gesture to: · Celia began listing their recent purchases and gestured proudly to the fountain.gesture for somebody to do something: · I turned to see a large policeman gesturing for us to move along.
to use a short movement of your arm or hand to tell someone what to do or where to go: motion to: · Neil finished his meal, and then motioned to the waitress.motion for somebody to do something: · Seeing Bert in the doorway, I motioned for him to come in.motion somebody to do something: · Kemp started to object, but I motioned him to be quiet.
to use a movement of your finger or head to tell someone to come towards you: · She beckoned and he came running immediately.· He was leaning over the wall, beckoning me.beckon to: · Jan beckoned to me, but I knew better than to sit next to her.beckon somebody in/over/to etc: · "Come and look at this," he said, beckoning me over to the window.
something that shows what is true or what is happening an event or fact that shows that something is true or that something is happening: · Therapy should begin when the first signs are noticed.sign of: · Stan has some of the early signs of heart disease.· Police searched the house thoroughly but found no signs of a break-in.sign (that): · A score of 80 or more is a sign that you are doing very well.be a sure sign (of/that) (=show that something is definitely true): · When Emma offers to help you it's a sure sign that she wants something from you!a good/hopeful/encouraging sign (=a sign that things are improving): · The rise in consumer spending is an encouraging sign that the economy may be recovering.
something, especially someone's behaviour or what they say, that makes you believe that something is probably happening or has probably happened: indication of: · There was no indication of forced entry to the building.indication (that): · There are indications that the Labour Party will win the next election.give no/any/a good indication of something: · If she knew what was going on outside, she gave no indication of it.· The daily pollen count can give a good indication of the amount of allergens in the air.give/show every indication of (doing) something: · The two parties have shown every indication of a willingness to compromise.
facts, objects etc that show that something exists or is true: · Without any evidence we cannot prove that she was involved in murder.evidence of: · People have been looking for evidence of life on other planets for years.evidence that: · We can find no evidence that he ever worked for the company.visible evidence: · There was no visible evidence that humans had ever lived in this valley.
a sign that someone has an illness or that a serious problem exists: · First the doctor asked me to describe my symptoms.symptom of: · The first symptoms of hepatitis are tiredness, vomiting, and loss of weight.· In his speech the Bishop labelled these crimes as a symptom of society's moral decline.
a very small sign that a particular situation exists or is true: trace of: · The thief was careful not to leave any trace of his activities.· Many local people were very eager to get rid of the last traces of their town's shameful past. with/without a trace of something: · Hans speaks English beautifully, without a trace of a foreign accent.
formal a very clear sign that a particular situation or feeling exists: manifestation of: · This latest outbreak of violence is a clear manifestation of discontent in the city.· Some men feel that showing their emotions is a manifestation of weakness.
something that happens which you think is a sign that something good or bad is going to happen in the future: · Do you think the rain is some kind of omen?bad omen: · George thought the car breaking down on the way to his wedding was a bad omen.good omen: · "Maybe this is a good omen," said Jill, seeing a blue sky for the first time in weeks.
: tell-tale signs/marks/symptoms etc signs that something is happening that are not very easy to notice, unless you know exactly what to look for : · In his face you could see the first tell-tale signs of alcoholism.· Teachers are encouraged to look for telltale signs of abuse among their students.
if you say that something is a giveaway , you mean it clearly shows you the real truth about something, rather than what someone would like you to believe: · Those fake beams are a giveaway - it isn't really an old pub.be a dead giveaway (=show very clearly): · That nervous twitching was always a dead giveaway that he'd done something wrong.
when something shows that something else is true to prove that something is true: · Her nervousness is shown by a tendency to laugh a lot in public.show (somebody) how/what/why etc: · It cost $5000 to repair the car -- that shows how bad the damage was!· It shows you what they think of their customers, if they can't even be bothered to answer your letter!show something/somebody to do something: · Caffeine has been shown to have a good effect on mental performance.show (that): · The evidence shows that this area was probably the site of a Roman settlement.· The polls clearly show that the voters are dissatisfied with the present government.it (just) goes to show (=use to emphasize that something proves that what you are saying is true): · It just goes to show that we can all learn from experience, whether we're 8 or 80.
if an event or action is a sign of something else, it is one of the things that shows that something is probably true: be a sign of: · The public opposition to the airport is a sign of how much people's attitudes have changed.· A cluttered desk is a sign of a creative mind.be a sign that: · When a dog wags his tail, it's a sign that he's happy.be a sure/clear sign: · My mother pursed her lips, a sure sign of displeasure.take/view/see something as a sign that (=decide that it shows something): · When she didn't return my calls, I took it as a sign that she just wasn't interested.
formal to show very clearly that something is true - use this especially in official or technical contexts: · His commitment to the company is demonstrated by his work on the project.demonstrate how/why/whether etc: · Here are some examples that demonstrate how badly some students write their resumés.· The assessment center gives each applicant the opportunity to demonstrate whether they are suited to the work.demonstrate that: · I'm afraid this whole episode demonstrates that we have become less compassionate as a society. demonstrate (something) to somebody: · You've got to be able to demonstrate to people that the union can help in these cases.
if an event or action means something, you can guess from it that something has happened or is true: · Cloudy water from the taps usually means problems with your storage tank.· A free economy does not mean the absence of any economic control. mean (that): · This sort of behaviour means that the child is definitely unhappy.· If A is false, does that also mean proposition B is false?must mean: · Her car's not there, so that must mean she's gone to pick him up.
to show very clearly that something is true: make it clear (that): · This new evidence makes it clear that Rourke was acting independently of the others.make it clear what/why/how etc: · The look in her eyes made it clear what she meant.make clear something: · The Unabomber's diary makes clear his loathing and contempt for society.
if something reflects a situation or fact, it is a result of that situation or fact and shows clearly that the situation or fact exists: · The three-year guarantee reflects the company's confidence in the quality of its products.· His fair, freckled skin and blue eyes reflect his Irish heritage.· This poll reflects what the Republicans of California are sensing. be reflected in: · The culture of a nation is always reflected in its language.
to be an example which shows that a fact is true or that a situation exists: · As this story illustrates, some stars have become as bored as audiences by Hollywood extravagance.· This point can be illustrated by two brief examples.illustrate how/why/what: · The experiment illustrates how careful you have to be when interpreting results.
if a situation, detail etc tells you something, it helps you to know, understand, or guess more about something: · What does this tell us about the experience of young immigrants to this country?tell somebody how many/much etc: · Unfortunately, the photographs can tell us very little about the potential for life on Mars.tell somebody that: · The research told us that many drug addicts were returning to heroin up to three years after the treatment.
if a situation, detail, fact is evidence of a general situation, attitude, type of behaviour etc, it shows that it exists: be evidence of: · Changes in sexual laws in recent years are evidence of a gradual movement towards greater tolerance.be evidence that: · Journalists argue that being attacked by both sides is evidence that their coverage is fair.· This is clear evidence that the crime figures do not represent the true situation.
to show something that most people did not know or realize is true: · The way he spoke in the bar afterwards revealed prejudice and bitterness that I had never suspected.· Separate holidays and weekends apart reveal more clearly than any words the state of their marriage.reveal how/why/what etc: · The President's refusal to meet the press reveals just how serious the crisis is.· Positive tests have revealed why some athletes were so reluctant to co-operate.reveal that: · The fact that there are no black officers in the entire regiment reveals that the army is not serious about its anti-discrimination policies.
WORD SETSAquarius, nounAries, nounastrologer, nounCancer, nounCapricorn, nounGemini, nounLeo, nounLibra, nounPisces, nounSagittarius, nounScorpio, nounsign, nounstargazer, nounstar sign, nounTaurus, nounVirgo, noun
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY Meaning 2ADJECTIVES/NOUN + sign
a player who would always sign autographs and chat with fans By indulging in casual sex, many teenagers could be signing their own death warrants. The signs are encouraging — but there’s a long way to go. a patient who is exhibiting classic symptoms of mental illness A ceasefire was declared as a sign of good faith. The vote is a hopeful sign that attitudes in the church are changing. His clenched fist was the only outward sign of his anger. The two countries signed a non-aggression pact. The Polish economy began to show signs of recovery. I dared not cry or show any sign of weakness.
· There are clear signs of a slowdown in economic growth.
(=a very clear sign)· He was walking up and down, a sure sign that he was worried.
· If she can move her legs, that’s a good sign.
· The jury was taking ages to make up its mind, which he felt was probably a bad sign.
(=one that people can see clearly)· Kim received the news without showing any visible sign of emotion.
(=one that shows something bad might be happening)· In this case, social workers missed the warning signs and failed to protect the children.
(=signs that clearly show something bad)· She would not look at me directly, a tell-tale sign that she was embarrassed.
(=the first thing that shows something is happening, or something exists)· They ran off at the first sign of trouble.
(=a sign near the beginning of something that shows that it is happening, or that it exists)· an early sign of spring
verbs· There are now signs of an improvement in the economy.
· It had all the signs of a crime of passion.
· Did she show any signs of distress?
(=have signs)· The bed was neatly made and bore no signs of having been slept in.
· I could see some signs of improvement in her health.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES· The two countries have signed an agreement on military co-operation.
a player who would always sign autographs and chat with fans· You've forgotten to sign the cheque.
· He had signed a confession in front of witnesses.
· He signed a contract to become vice president of the football club.
· The singer has signed a $20 million deal with an American TV network.
By indulging in casual sex, many teenagers could be signing their own death warrants.· I couldn't see any signs of decay on the fruit.
· He showed no sign of emotion as the guilty verdict was read out.
The signs are encouraging — but there’s a long way to go. a patient who is exhibiting classic symptoms of mental illness (=one showing where an exit is)· There was a red glowing exit sign over the door.
(=one showing the names of places or roads near an exit)· Stay on the same road until you see an exit sign for Rhode Island.
A ceasefire was declared as a sign of good faith. The vote is a hopeful sign that attitudes in the church are changing.· The patient is showing signs of improvement.
(=agree to the legal details of a lease by signing it)· He refused to sign the new lease because the rent was too high.
· Sign your name here, please.
(=ones that use neon) the neon lights of Las Vegas
the neon lights of Las Vegas His clenched fist was the only outward sign of his anger. The two countries signed a non-aggression pact.· Five hundred villagers have signed the petition.
· I managed to get a signed photo of her.
· He keeps a signed photograph of Bill Clinton in his office.
The Polish economy began to show signs of recovery.· Headaches, migraines, and irritability are all signs of stress.· The effects of stress are subtle and sometimes difficult to see.
· India refused to sign the treaty.
· He considered the expensive car a visible sign of his achievement.
· Don’t ignore the warning signs of stress.
I dared not cry or show any sign of weakness. (=one of the 12 parts that this area is divided into) ‘Which sign of the zodiac were you born under?’ ‘Leo.’
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE ‘Which sign of the zodiac were you born under?’ ‘Leo.’· A disorderly, uncontrolled and egotistic lifestyle is a very bad sign indeed.· Facetiousness in a teacher is usually a bad sign.· That none of them had could be a bad sign or a good.· It was a bad sign, she thought.· So whenever she was busy sewing, Corbett always recognised it as a bad sign.· During most of the 1990s, dazed apartment investors stumbled around California as if they were born under a bad sign.· Only his beard continued to grow these days, for he had given up shaving; a bad sign.· There were several bad signs here.
· Bowel training showed less social class difference possibly because there are clearer anticipating signs of passing a motion.· And why do chronic drinkers seem to show clear signs of cognitive dysfunction?· There are clear signs that supplies of fungi are now dwindling.· Despite clear signs of weakness in his support, Sen.· It had recently withdrawn the ice-breaker Endurance, generally taken as a clear sign of retreat.· During Period 4, the infant shows clear signs of event anticipation.· With clear signs of a recovery, analysts are pencilling in a modest profit for the full year.
· The principal clinical signs in heavy infections are rapid weight loss and diarrhoea.· When laboratory findings confirm clinical signs of nutrition problems, an interview with a nutritionist is essential.· In severe infections, diarrhoea is the most prominent clinical sign.· This is based on clinical signs and post-mortem examination.· Mass emergence of these larvae results in the severe clinical signs described previously.· This is based on the grazing history and clinical signs of loss of condition and anaemia.· A group of specific clinical signs seem useful in predicting hypoxaemia.· This is based on clinical signs, seasonal occurrence of disease and, if possible, lesions at post-mortem examination.
· It is free of charge and can help to detect early signs of health problems and prevent them developing.· And the early signs of that being altered date back to the tough public spending rounds of the early 1980s.· Very frequently in the literature earlier discussions about sign language universality are described as myths or misconceptions.· But as long as you spot the early signs you should be okay - just keep the red bits covered for a few days.· There is some way to go in all this despite the promising early signs.· The early signs are not promising.· The reduction of fever is an early sign of improvement in tuberculosis.
· The searcher returned another day and another and all this was a good sign.· It is a good sign to have married men, with kids, on the slate.· It didn't seem like a very good sign.· Oh, I thought, that is not a good sign.· Sometimes he forgot and gave them again, which she took to be a good sign.· Nobody noticed but Sethe and she stopped looking after she decided that it was a good sign.· Foolishly, I took it as a good sign.
· One hopeful sign for the success of the peace talks is the military deadlock.· The veterans event was a hopeful sign.· There were hopeful signs from one recalcitrant state.· On Thursday, there were some hopeful signs.· The introduction of girls into cathedral choirs and the continuing vitality of choir schools are also hopeful signs for the future.· On one hand, the resumption of talks and the discussion of safe passage to another nation are hopeful signs.· But they remain merely hopeful signs.· Still, there are some hopeful signs.
· As yet, there is little sign of this happening.· He drove across the five lanes toward the little sign.· But there is little sign of an agreement in the near future.· Even though she named the soldiers, there has been little sign of justice, or information.· However, there is little sign that it will ever produce compounds on the scale required by the heavy organic chemicals industry.· But he shows little sign of realising, even now, how mad that exercise was.· There is little sign of the new partnership courts.
· Down the block the Rosslyn's neon sign recently got a face lift.· Faces are bathed in the bright glow of flashing neon signs that turn night into day along Fremont Street.· The old motels capitalized on regional pride and kitsch, cheerfully twisting their neon signs into oddball shapes.· He turns down a small side alley where the scene is quieter, with fewer glaring neon signs and nude photo displays.
· There are now obvious signs that we are here to stay.· Only one showed no obvious signs of violence.· After a quick look round to make sure that weed left no obvious signs of our own visit, we left.· They maybe the only obvious signs of social status.· Check fish for obvious signs of bacterial disease before you buy them.· While there are obvious remaining signs of the damage, the area continues to work toward normalcy.· In the pages that follow I will characterize some of the more obvious signs of a badly organized and motivated operation.· The most obvious sign was a blitz called by defensive coordinator Fred Whittingham with just over two minutes left in the game.
· These markers are outward signs portraying whether or not individuals and collections of people belong to the same ethnic group.· People are born with these defects but often show no outward signs of problems.· She gave no outward signs of her problems when she went on a walkabout.· There were few outward signs, however, that the samurai was ready to sheath his sword.· He would probably try releasing Osman even if he gave no outward sign of acquiescence.· Through much of 1984, there were few outward signs of trouble.· Despite these tensions, government delegations came and went; the outward signs were that all was well.· They represented one more barrier between the stricken and the hale, one more outward sign of difference.
· Muddy colours in the aura indicate negative emotions or ill health; clear colours are generally a positive sign.· However, the curiosity factor was a positive sign as far as Phoenix Hockey is concerned.· The positive signs on both indicate that these variables were probably indicating availability of leisure time.· For investors, the Ketchum acquisition is a positive sign that Omnicom intends to stick to its strategy of growth through acquisitions.· It's a very complex area but I do think there are positive signs in favour of nuclear.· The most positive sign was that the rattan lashings of the main hull seemed to be holding firm.· Not everyone saw braces as a positive sign, however.
· A man whose star sign made him her exact opposite.· Antonia is very into fate, star signs and things like that.· But which one of the three star signs did he belong to? she wondered.· You're not still going on about all that star sign nonsense, are you?· The descriptions of the characters in relation to their star signs is spot-on.· Perhaps it was simply due to his star sign.· Why was it that everyone she'd met lately seemed to be obsessed with star signs?
· The oyster boats were still fixed to the moorings, a sure sign that Oystermouth was in mourning.· These are the sure signs that green corn tamale season is in full swing.· It was thus a sure sign that his thoughts were far away.· It was still in place, a sure sign that the door had not been opened while he was out.· He complained that newcomers forgot to bring church membership certificates along, a sure sign that they expected no church at all.· Above: Ulcers are a sure sign of poor water.· The Presidential lips pursed, a sure sign of anger.
· These changes in facial colour are the most visible sign that you are reacting to each other.· Terry had the desire to see how they had been affected, or for any visible signs of compulsion.· When a church is in her infancy there will be the most visible signs of growth, as with a child.· The visible signs of this malaise included the loss of inner-city population and jobs and the deterioration of inner-city housing.· The visible signs are of two main sorts.· The neighborhood people sent money, but they had to be careful of more visible signs of support.· There is no visible sign of rancour at the curious lifestyle imposed on her; she appears placidly resigned to her fate.· The most visible signs of a growing revivalist spirit appeared in the ministry of James McGready in Kentucky.
· If problems have been identified during assessment, monitoring of vital signs and fluid balance may continue.· Soon, all the vital signs improved, and Keynes looked like the hero of the century.· He was conscious but still drowsy and his vital signs were stable.· These rarely seen specialists administer local and general anesthesia, handle pain control and monitor your vital signs during the operation.· Theatre staff usually wait until the patient's vital signs are stabilizing before allowing the patient to return to the ward.· The following instructions were given: To monitor vital signs and measure the central venous pressure, half hourly at first.· And disguising your vital signs can be attained-albeit with effort.· He's a good weight, his vital signs are stable.
NOUN· Word list translations have been obtained and analysed in 15 different sign languages.· Loi himself was seated with the family, looking totally content as they conversed with sign language.· For the benefit of the deaf members present the Dean's and all subsequent speeches were interpreted into sign language.· It is relevant here to ask the simple question of how processes commonly related to intelligence are predictors of sign language learning.· Advice workers are encouraged to learn sign language.· In other cases, similar signs are found only among sign languages with known historical links.· Earl Granville, in his recent speech in London, that the finger and sign language was barbarous.· The developments in child language research, however, show parallel development of sign language and spoken language in young children.
· This happened to me on the Seven Mile Straight at recently, a lorry coming in the opposite direction in spite of road signs.· Through our windshields we see road signs and tail-lights-technology has blinkered us.· Takes minutes to drive 6 miles into centre of Bideford due to endlessness of roads and imbecilic road signs.· Drop the requirement for use of the metric system on road signs.· It didn't say Blackberry Hill anywhere, there was just an old-fashioned road sign saying Broughton Street was four miles away.· Mammoth road signs do their best to ensure that such oversights do not occur.· Fisher's study also suggested that recall was not a good measure of whether a road sign had been heeded.
· Floors: Preliminaries should usually include zoning off the area by placing suitable warning signs or cones.· Exasperated police blamed drivers for going too fast and ignoring fog warning signs.· It is very important for parents to get professional help as soon as they recognize any of these warning signs.· It is a warning sign that your water quality is unsuitable.· But raised blood pressure is an early warning sign and is one of the simplest and cheapest checks that can be done.· She gave no warning signs, and the destruction created in the wake of her departure can be devastating.· They admit he is charming, but fingers point to his eyes as warning signs, demonic pin points.· But they admit that many warning signs are just a bluff.
VERB· And if you can't tell me, please give me a sign.· My grandmother came up and talked to her daughter constantly, although she gave no sign of hearing her.· If he found her tone peremptory he gave no sign of it.· Some members there clinked glasses and gave thumbs-up signs as they watched the verdict at the cozy first-floor bar.· They found his, and for an instant, they gave no sign.· He had given no sign of injury until we came to a stop.· Zak flashed a glance at the crew, saw me and gave me a thumbs-up sign.· The guide, however, stood his ground, frantically giving me unrecognizable signs.
· Neither dares to look away for an instant, in case this is read as a sign of weakness.· Illiterates do not read signs that indicate a state or county border.· But Reagan read the signs of the times.· Maryellen reads aloud the sign on the wall.· Gloucester does not feature at all, something which has been read as a sign of Woodville control of the council.· He read the sign across the street.· Joy was now standing, reading the two signs over and over.· Some can not answer for the obvious reason that they can not read the sign.
· She could see the sign already, because the café was flood-lit tonight.· Do you see a sign on me that says Jungle Clearing Specialist?· Saris are seen as a sign of the wearer being progressive.· It enrages others who see it as a sign that the government has turned against them.· To Stubb, it represents much money and he sees various signs of the Zodiac in it.· He hadn't heard a voice, he'd seen a sign.· Other than that, we see no signs of trouble.
· The Labour Party showed no signs of accepting the points made by the Petition Committee.· Stock averages have shown all signs of a mania.· What was to be done for Liselotte, who showed signs of severe mental stress from the age of five?· That trend shows no sign of slowing down.· Stomach and bowel problems have also laid him low but he shows no sign of stopping.· Since then he has shown every sign of being a pragmatist, an adroit politician and a very hard worker.· Lifeguards say the calf spotted Monday showed no sign of injury and still had a stubby part of its umbilicus attached.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRYPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
- A flock was once thought to be a decisive sign of life, some noble formation only life could achieve.
- After the bout in which I intimated signs of life, I came through the ropes, smiling.
- Even when all sign of life had gone I kept on feeling itchy.
- Here are inchoate signs of life, but not as we know it, Jim.
- I looked around for the slightest sign of life.
- It was Hilda Machin, and there was no sign of life.
- There are signs of life above the snow, too.
- There was no sign of life.
- At the time, I took this decay merely as a sign of the times.
- But in a sign of the times, Army Chief Gen.
- But Reagan read the signs of the times.
- Is this a sign of the times?
- It was a sign of the times. 1956.
- That we owe this to the vast reach of cyberspace is indeed a sign of the times.
- This is a real sign of the times and completely eclipses global fears about ecology or famine.
- As she made the sign of the cross he spoke in loud and solemn tones.
- Athelstan sketched the sign of the cross above the corpse and sprinkled it with the Asperges rod.
- He began mumbling in Latin, and attempted to make the sign of the Cross.
- He made the sign of the cross and knocked.
- I was bowing low, making quickly, very quickly, the sign of the cross.
- She is best remembered for extinguishing a blazing fire by making the sign of the cross.
- Surreptitiously, her hand hidden within the furry confines of her muff, Anne made the sign of the cross.
- Take the sign of the cross.
- Although voices of dissent are being heard, there is no sign of the supermodel phenomenon abating in the near future.
- But still there is no sign of Captain Ahab.
- But there is no sign of staleness: the performances at the Haymarket are terrific in their strength.
- Furniture is strewn down the road, but there is no sign of the hapless hero.
- However, there is no sign of the Elven magical artefact.
- It appears, however, there is no sign of such a commitment.
- Moreover to implement the change there is no sign of introducing the extra resources which most commentators see as necessary.
- Not only do they lack legs but there is no sign of an internal girdle of bones at either shoulder or hip.
- But, if you use cleaning products, you must follow the manufacturer's directions explicitly.
- He made his way quickly to Mrs Brooks' house, following the postman's directions.
- If you're using sterilising solution, follow the manufacturer's directions.
- One involves focus groups, where a representative customer is selected and asked to perform a task by following the enclosed directions.
- Process through a pasta machine following the manufacturer's directions.
- Here are five telltale signs that the Ego is in command: 1.
- Then skim through your document for their telltale signs.
- Would we allow the police to search the sacred precincts of marital bedrooms for telltale signs of the use of contraceptives?
- And disguising your vital signs can be attained-albeit with effort.
- He's a good weight, his vital signs are stable.
- He was conscious but still drowsy and his vital signs were stable.
- If problems have been identified during assessment, monitoring of vital signs and fluid balance may continue.
- Soon, all the vital signs improved, and Keynes looked like the hero of the century.
- The following instructions were given: To monitor vital signs and measure the central venous pressure, half hourly at first.
- Theatre staff usually wait until the patient's vital signs are stabilizing before allowing the patient to return to the ward.
- These rarely seen specialists administer local and general anesthesia, handle pain control and monitor your vital signs during the operation.
WORD FAMILYnounsignsignalsignatorysignaturesigningsignallerverbsignsignaladjectivesigned ≠ unsignedadverbsignally
1gives information [countable] a piece of paper, metal, or wood with words or a picture that gives people information, warnings, or instructions: a sign on the door road signs a no smoking sign Don’t ignore the fog warning signs.2shows something is true [countable] an event, fact etc that shows that something is happening or that something is true or exists SYN indicationsign of A red morning sky is a sign of an impending storm. Crying is seen as a sign of weakness. A paw print in the dust was a sign that a tiger was close. There are signs that the situation is improving. There were no signs of forced entry into the house.3movement or sound [countable] a movement, sound etc that you make in order to tell someone something: the thumbs-up sign (=a sign that you make with your hand to show that something is successful)give/make a sign Wait until I give the sign.sign that Bruce made a sign that he was ready to leave.sign (for somebody) to do something Three short blasts on the whistle was the sign to begin.4symbol [countable] a mark or shape that has a particular meaning SYN symbol: the dollar sign a minus sign5star sign [countable] (also star sign) a group of stars, representing one of 12 parts of the year, that some people believe influences your behaviour and your life: What sign are you?6language [uncountable] a language that uses hand movements instead of spoken words, used by people who cannot hear SYN sign language7there is no sign of somebody/something used to say that someone or something is not in a place or cannot be found: I waited for two hours but there was still no sign of her.8sign of life a)a movement that shows that someone is alive, or something that shows that there are people in a particular place: She listened intently for signs of life. b)something that shows that a situation is becoming more active: Commercial property markets are now showing definite signs of life.9sign of the times something that shows how people live now: It’s just a sign of the times that many children have mobile phones.10the sign of the Cross the hand movement that some Christians make in the shape of a cross, to show respect for God or to protect themselves from evilCOLLOCATIONS– Meaning 2ADJECTIVES/NOUN + signa clear/obvious/unmistakable sign· There are clear signs of a slowdown in economic growth.a sure sign (=a very clear sign)· He was walking up and down, a sure sign that he was worried.a good/positive/encouraging/hopeful sign· If she can move her legs, that’s a good sign.a bad/ominous sign· The jury was taking ages to make up its mind, which he felt was probably a bad sign.an outward/visible sign (=one that people can see clearly)· Kim received the news without showing any visible sign of emotion.a warning sign (=one that shows something bad might be happening)· In this case, social workers missed the warning signs and failed to protect the children.a telltale/tell-tale sign (=signs that clearly show something bad)· She would not look at me directly, a tell-tale sign that she was embarrassed.the first sign of something (=the first thing that shows something is happening, or something exists)· They ran off at the first sign of trouble.an early sign (=a sign near the beginning of something that shows that it is happening, or that it exists)· an early sign of springverbsthere are signs· There are now signs of an improvement in the economy.have signs· It had all the signs of a crime of passion.show signs of something· Did she show any signs of distress?bear signs of something (=have signs)· The bed was neatly made and bore no signs of having been slept in.see/detect signs of something· I could see some signs of improvement in her health.THESAURUSsign [countable] an event, fact etc that shows that something is happening or that something is true or exists: · The curtains were still drawn and there was no sign of activity.· A score of 80 or more is a sign that you are doing very well.indication [countable] a sign. Indication is more formal than sign: · Recently there have been several indications of improving relations.· There was no indication the killings were related to the drug trade.evidence [uncountable] facts or signs that show clearly that something exists or is true, especially something that you are trying to prove: · Scientists are hoping to find evidence that there was once life on Mars.· There was not enough evidence to convict him of the murder.symptom [countable] a sign that someone has an illness or that a serious problem exists: · The first symptoms are tiredness and loss of weight.· Is this a symptom of the decay of Western civilization?indicator [countable] a sign that shows you what is happening or what is true – used about a process, or about the state or level of something: · There are a number of indicators of economic slowdown.· The tests are considered a good indicator of intelligence.signal [countable] a sign that shows that you should do something, or that you have a particular attitude: · Severe chest pain is a warning signal that cannot be ignored.· Legalizing drugs could send the wrong signal to young people.mark [countable] a sign, especially that you respect or honour someone: · People stood in silence as a mark of respect.· It was a mark of her popularity that so many colleagues and friends attended the presentation.sign1 nounsign2 verb
signsign2 ●●● S1 W1 verb WORD ORIGINsign2
Origin:
1300-1400 Old French signer, from Latin signare, from signum; ➔ SIGN1VERB TABLE
sign
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | sign |
| he, she, it | signs | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | signed |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have signed |
| he, she, it | has signed | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had signed |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will sign |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have signed |
| Continuous Form | ||
| Present | I | am signing |
| he, she, it | is signing | |
| you, we, they | are signing | |
| Past | I, he, she, it | was signing |
| you, we, they | were signing | |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have been signing |
| he, she, it | has been signing | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had been signing |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will be signing |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have been signing |
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- Sign here please.
- Could you sign for this package, please?
- Did the doctor ask you to sign a consent form Mrs Harris?
- Each tenant will have to sign the lease.
- Just sign here by the X.
- Simmons was signed as a free agent in 1994.
- The governor's speech will be signed by an interpreter for the hearing-impaired.
- Where do you want me to sign my name?
- Would you like to sign our guest book?
- You forgot to sign the credit card slip.
- Almost 200,000 Czechs signed a petition protesting at Mr Hodac's appointment, and each night thousands gather outside the studios.
- Also, the Cowboys have some significant free agents to sign after this season.
- Clinton has refused to sign GOP-backed legislation to reimburse the fired travel office personnel for their legal expenses.
- On 15 May 1679 the marriage contract was signed at Lisbon.
- The following year, Bark Psychosis signed to Virgin and finally began to fulfil the promise of their live shows.
- The negotiations, on rescheduling debts payable between mid-1991 and mid-1993, made some progress but no agreements were signed.
- They also sign veteran Charlie Hayes.
- This was the first sanction imposed by the Commission since the Euratom treaty had been signed in 1957.
THESAURUS
to use a pen or pencil to make words, letters etc: · Have you written a shopping list?· The children are learning to read and write.
to write something on paper, in order to remember it or make a record: · He wrote down everything she said.
to write something in a particular place, or to write particular words: · I’ve put the dates of the meetings in my diary.· At the end of the email she put ‘PS I love you’.
to write something that you have agreed or promised, so that there is an official record: · They said they would pay me 50%, but they haven’t actually put it in writing.
to write information that you might need later: · I’ll just make a note of your address.· Make a note in your diary.
to write things while someone is speaking or while something is happening, so that you can use them later: · His lawyer was with him taking notes.
to write something carelessly and untidily, especially in big letters – often used to show disapproval: · Someone had scrawled graffiti on the school wall.· He’d scrawled a few unhelpful comments at the bottom of my work.
to write information on a form or other official document: · Please fill in the application form in black ink.· Would you mind filling out a questionnaire?
to write your name at the end of a letter, document etc: · Read the contract carefully, and then sign it.· Don’t forget to sign your name.
Longman Language Activatora written sign that gives instructions or information · There was a big sign above the entrance.· A neon sign flashed on and off in the window.· Didn't you see the "No smoking" sign?· Turn left and then follow the signs till you get to the freeway.traffic/road sign (=a sign that gives information to drivers) · Out in the desert there are hardly any road signs along the highway.
especially British a piece of paper giving instructions or information, that is put in a place where people can see it: · The details of the trip are on that notice over there.put up a notice: · I'll put up a notice about the meeting on the bulletin board.take down a notice: · Now that the sale is over someone needs to take down the notices.
a large printed piece of paper that is put on a wall in a public place, and that gives information about something that is going to happen, for example a film or concert: · Sandra collects old movie posters.· Ernst's supporters have plastered his election posters over walls and cars.poster for: · There are posters for the Van Gogh exhibition everywhere.
a picture or shape that has a particular meaning a picture or shape that has a particular meaning, and that is well known and often used: · You've forgotten to put the dollar sign before the total amount.· Where's the percentage sign on this keyboard?
a picture, shape, or design that has a particular meaning or represents an idea: · The walls were covered with magical symbols.· For several years Prince used a symbol instead of his name.symbol of: · The dove is a symbol of peace.symbol for: · The ancient Egyptians had no symbol for "zero."
a sign that has been designed to represent an organization or product: · The baseball team has a new logo.· His costume had the Superman logo across the chest.· You can buy bags with the company logo on them in the gift shop.
a picture of an object, flower, animal etc that is used to represent a country or organization: · Scotland's emblem is the thistle.· The jacket had a tiny Olympic emblem on the pocket.emblem of: · The hammer and sickle is the emblem of the Communist Party.
shapes, pictures, decorations etc that represent a powerful group, especially a military organization: · Someone had spray-painted gang insignia on his car.· They collect clothing with FBI insignia on it so they can pretend to be federal agents.
a movement or sound that you make to tell someone something a movement that you make in order to tell someone something: · He raised his hand in a sign of greeting.sign (that): · Mardas threw his hands in the air - a sign to his supporters that victory was theirs.sign for somebody to do something: · When the teacher puts her finger to her lips, it's a sign for you all to be quiet.
a sound or movement that you make in order to tell someone to do something: give a signal: · Don't start yet - wait until I give the signal.signal to do something: · The soldiers were waiting for the signal to start firing.signal for somebody to do something: · When I nod my head, that's the signal for you to start playing the music.hand signals: · Stock brokers use roughly 300 hand signals on the trading floor.
a movement of your hands, arms, or head that shows how you feel, especially when you are very worried or angry: gesture of: · Jim raised his hands in a gesture of despair.make a gesture: · Someone in another car started making gestures and pointing at our tires.make a rude gesture: · The fight started when one of the fans made a rude gesture at a player.
a slight downward movement you make with your head to say 'yes' to something or to say that something can begin: · I asked if he was hungry, and he responded with a nod.give (somebody) a nod: · Daniels gave a slight nod, and Bill started to speak.
to make a movement or sound to tell someone something to make a movement, especially with your hand, in order to tell someone something: · I'll make a sign when I'm ready.· The President made a sign to indicate that he wanted to leave.make a sign (that): · From across the room Marla made a sign that she had seen me come in.
to make a movement or sound in order to give instructions or information: · A sailor began signalling with two flags.signal to: · Graham finished his drink and signalled to the waiter.signal that: · An official signalled that it was time for the race to begin.signal somebody to do something: · Slowly he inched around the corner, signalling for the others to follow.
to make a previously agreed sign that tells someone that they should start doing something: · When I give the signal, I want you all to start clapping.give (somebody) the signal to do something: · The dog waited patiently until his master gave him the signal to eat.
to move your hand or arm from one side to the other, for example in order to get someone's attention or to tell them something: · She continued to wave as the car drove out of sight.wave at: · Who's that waving at you?wave to: · The emperor waved to the crowd from the palace balcony.wave for somebody to do something: · Yolanda waved for us to come over.wave somebody through/on (=wave to show someone that they can go through or continue their journey): · The customs officer at the border waved us through.wave goodbye (=wave to someone who is leaving): · Her parents stood in the doorway and waved goodbye.
to quickly close and open one eye, in order to show that you are joking or that you share a secret with someone: · Ben grinned at his father and winked.wink at: · "The weather's so nice, I'm thinking of calling in sick tomorrow," she said, winking at me.
to make a slight downward movement with your head to say 'yes' or 'hello' or to say that something can begin: · Rob nodded his head in agreement.· "Has he really left you?" I asked. Josie nodded miserably.nod/nod your head at/to: · The two men nodded to each other, as if they'd met before.nod/nod your head for somebody to do something: · She nodded for Mike to lead the way.
to use a movement of your hand, especially to tell someone to go to a place or to emphasize your meaning when you are saying something: · The man was gesturing wildly, but we couldn't understand what he wanted.gesture to/at: · "Please sit down," said Winters, gesturing at the chair facing his own.gesture to: · Celia began listing their recent purchases and gestured proudly to the fountain.gesture for somebody to do something: · I turned to see a large policeman gesturing for us to move along.
to use a short movement of your arm or hand to tell someone what to do or where to go: motion to: · Neil finished his meal, and then motioned to the waitress.motion for somebody to do something: · Seeing Bert in the doorway, I motioned for him to come in.motion somebody to do something: · Kemp started to object, but I motioned him to be quiet.
to use a movement of your finger or head to tell someone to come towards you: · She beckoned and he came running immediately.· He was leaning over the wall, beckoning me.beckon to: · Jan beckoned to me, but I knew better than to sit next to her.beckon somebody in/over/to etc: · "Come and look at this," he said, beckoning me over to the window.
something that shows what is true or what is happening an event or fact that shows that something is true or that something is happening: · Therapy should begin when the first signs are noticed.sign of: · Stan has some of the early signs of heart disease.· Police searched the house thoroughly but found no signs of a break-in.sign (that): · A score of 80 or more is a sign that you are doing very well.be a sure sign (of/that) (=show that something is definitely true): · When Emma offers to help you it's a sure sign that she wants something from you!a good/hopeful/encouraging sign (=a sign that things are improving): · The rise in consumer spending is an encouraging sign that the economy may be recovering.
something, especially someone's behaviour or what they say, that makes you believe that something is probably happening or has probably happened: indication of: · There was no indication of forced entry to the building.indication (that): · There are indications that the Labour Party will win the next election.give no/any/a good indication of something: · If she knew what was going on outside, she gave no indication of it.· The daily pollen count can give a good indication of the amount of allergens in the air.give/show every indication of (doing) something: · The two parties have shown every indication of a willingness to compromise.
facts, objects etc that show that something exists or is true: · Without any evidence we cannot prove that she was involved in murder.evidence of: · People have been looking for evidence of life on other planets for years.evidence that: · We can find no evidence that he ever worked for the company.visible evidence: · There was no visible evidence that humans had ever lived in this valley.
a sign that someone has an illness or that a serious problem exists: · First the doctor asked me to describe my symptoms.symptom of: · The first symptoms of hepatitis are tiredness, vomiting, and loss of weight.· In his speech the Bishop labelled these crimes as a symptom of society's moral decline.
a very small sign that a particular situation exists or is true: trace of: · The thief was careful not to leave any trace of his activities.· Many local people were very eager to get rid of the last traces of their town's shameful past. with/without a trace of something: · Hans speaks English beautifully, without a trace of a foreign accent.
formal a very clear sign that a particular situation or feeling exists: manifestation of: · This latest outbreak of violence is a clear manifestation of discontent in the city.· Some men feel that showing their emotions is a manifestation of weakness.
something that happens which you think is a sign that something good or bad is going to happen in the future: · Do you think the rain is some kind of omen?bad omen: · George thought the car breaking down on the way to his wedding was a bad omen.good omen: · "Maybe this is a good omen," said Jill, seeing a blue sky for the first time in weeks.
: tell-tale signs/marks/symptoms etc signs that something is happening that are not very easy to notice, unless you know exactly what to look for : · In his face you could see the first tell-tale signs of alcoholism.· Teachers are encouraged to look for telltale signs of abuse among their students.
if you say that something is a giveaway , you mean it clearly shows you the real truth about something, rather than what someone would like you to believe: · Those fake beams are a giveaway - it isn't really an old pub.be a dead giveaway (=show very clearly): · That nervous twitching was always a dead giveaway that he'd done something wrong.
to give something to someone in authority to give something to someone in authority, for example to the police or a teacher: hand/give in something: · When you leave the hotel, please hand in your key at the desk.· Luckily, someone gave in her purse at the lost property office.hand/give something in: · Have you given your English assignment in yet?
to give something such as weapons or important documents to the police or to government officials, when you should not legally have them or you have been officially asked to give them: turn something in/over: · Police are encouraging people to turn illegal weapons in at their local police station.turn in/over something to somebody: · The government is refusing to turn over the documents to the UN inspection team.
to give something to someone because they have asked or forced you to: hand over something: · The robbers forced them to hand over the money.· "Give us a bit of your rum," he said. Virginia handed over the bottle. hand something over: · If you don't hand it over I'll shoot!
to give a prisoner to another group of people, especially the police or the people in authority in another country: hand/turn somebody over to somebody: · The terrorists were taken to the airport, where they were handed over to the French authorities.hand/turn over somebody: · The kidnappers promised to go to the embassy and turn over all their hostages within 24 hours.
to give information or documents to another person: · Officials admitted that they failed to pass on important information.pass on something to somebody: · It was discovered that he had been passing secrets on to the Russians whilst working at the Pentagon.pass something on to somebody: · He was accused of stealing secret documents and passing them on to the enemy.
formal to give your power or possessions to someone else because you have been forced to or have agreed to: · The President has indicated that he intends to surrender power on February 7th.surrender something to somebody: · They promised to abide by the peace agreement and surrender all their weapons to the occupying forces.
to let someone else have your possessions or rights by officially signing a legal document: · With a stroke of the pen he signed away his claim to the family estate.· Her husband has tricked her into signing away her rights to the property.sign something away: · "I have no intention whatsoever of signing my inheritance away," she informed him coldly.
to let someone else have your position, power or rights, especially unwillingly: · The Prince was persuaded to relinquish his claim to the throne.· The United States is pressing the rebel army to relinquish power.
to give someone a job · If I give you the job, how soon can you begin?· After law school, he was given a job in the city's legal department.give sb a job as · Goldman gave her a job as his assistant.
also hire especially American to give someone a job and pay them for the work they do for you: · Since he came out of prison no one will employ him.· The company has been accused of not hiring enough women.employ as: · I was employed as a night-watchman by the local hospital.· She was hired as marketing director for a biotechnology firm.
if a company takes on someone, it gives them a job - use this especially about a job that might not be permanent or when a lot of people are given jobs at the same time: take on somebody: · We're not taking on any more staff at the moment.take somebody etc on: · Franklin needed an assistant, and he got funding from the department to take one on. take somebody on as something: · The director took me on as a messenger while they were filming in my village.
British formal to give someone a job: · The vet was increasingly busy and had to engage two new assistants.engage somebody as something: · Paul was engaged as a junior clerk at a very low wage.
to choose someone for a job, especially an important job: · The French president has appointed a new Minister for Culture.· The committee was appointed to make recommendations on housing development in the area.appoint somebody as director/manager etc: · When he was governor, Brown appointed Rose Bird as chief justice of the California Supreme Court.appoint somebody director/manager etc: · Schreiber was appointed director of human resources.appoint somebody to a job/post/ position etc: · This is the first time that a woman has been appointed to the post.
to find new people to work for a company or organization such as the army: · The police department is trying to recruit more black officers.· It's getting more and more difficult to recruit experienced staff.
also sign American if a football team, record company, film company etc signs up or signs someone, they agree to give them a job and make them sign an official contract: · Allegre was signed by the New York Jets.· Six episodes of the show have been taped, and the actors have been signed for six more.sign up somebody: · England soccer star Paul Gascoigne was signed up by a top Italian club.sign somebody up: · The band have just completed a highly successful US tour, and several record companies have offered to sign them up.
to take part in a competition, exam, course etc to take part in a competition or race: · Only cars over 50 years old are allowed to compete.· The competition was a great success. Nearly two hundred people took part.compete/take part in: · How many runners will be competing in the marathon?· Please contact Debbie if you would like to take part in the charity swim.
also go in for something British to say that you will take part in a competition or race, for example by putting your name on a list: · Only students under 18 can enter.· Dad says he's going in for the talent contest.· Jay and Cindy entered the dance competition for fun - they had no idea they would win.· We went in for the crossword competition and won twenty-five pounds.
to arrange to take part in a course of study by signing an agreement: · Did you sign up yet? The course starts in two weeks, you know.sign up for: · Gary can't find a job, so he's signed up for Unemployment Training.sign up to do something: · I signed up to take an art class just to get out of the house in the evenings.
British /enroll American to formally arrange to take part in a course of study: · The course is very popular, so it's best to enrol as soon as possible.enrol onBritish /+ in American: · I'd like to enrol on the German course, please.· Bill enrolled in a four-year teacher-training course in Albany.enrol for British: · That year Sam enroled for law studies in Cape Town.
to write your name to write your name at the end of a letter, document etc, in order to prove who you are or show that you wrote it: · Sign here please.· Did the doctor ask you to sign a consent form Mrs Harris?· You forgot to sign the credit card slip.sign your name: · Where do you want me to sign my name?sign for something (=to show that you have received it): · Could you sign for this package, please?
to write the first letter of each of your names on something such as a document to show that you agree to it, have read it etc: · The memo had been initialled by the President.· If you alter something you have written on a cheque, you must initial the change.
to write your signature on an official document, especially one that has already been signed by someone else, in order to approve it: · You have to get your visa countersigned by someone at the embassy.
your name written by you, for example on a document or at the end of a letter, in order to prove who you are or show that you wrote it: · Who's it from? I can't read the signature.· Put your signature here, then print your name underneath.· You have to get the signature of the child's parent or guardian.signature on: · I just need your signature again on this last sheet here.
the name of a famous person, written by them on a photograph, in a book etc for someone to keep: · She has the autograph of every player in the team.sign autographs (=to sign your name for people when they ask): · He refused to sign autographs at a charity event last year.
WORD SETSaccented, adjectiveAfrikaans, nounAnglo-Saxon, nounArabic, nounBengali, nounbilingual, adjectiveCantonese, nounChinese, nounconversant, adjectivecreole, nounDanish, noundialect, noundictation, noundirect method, noundub, verbDutch, nounEnglish, nounEsperanto, nounFarsi, nounFlemish, nounfluent, adjectiveFrancophone, adjectiveFranglais, nounFrench, adjectiveGaelic, nounGerman, nounGermanic, adjectiveGreek, nounHebraic, adjectiveHebrew, nounHindi, nounIndo-European, adjectiveItalian, nounItalo-, prefixJapanese, nounLatin, nounLatin, adjectivelinguist, nounlinguistics, nounMandarin, nounMaori, nounmodern language, nounmonolingual, adjectivemother tongue, nounmultilingual, adjectivenative speaker, nounoral, nounpatois, nounPersian, nounPolish, adjectivePortuguese, nounRomance language, nounRomany, nounRussian, nounSanskrit, nounsecond language, nounSemitic, adjectivesign, nounsign, verbsign language, nounSinhalese, nounSpanish, nounspeak, verb-speak, suffixspeaker, nounSwedish, nountransliterate, verbTurkish, nounUrdu, nounusage, nounvernacular, nounvocabulary, nounWelsh, noun
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY The artist had signed his name in the corner of the painting. You forgot to sign the cheque. Over a hundred people have signed the petition. Serena signs her autograph every time she’s asked. I felt as if I was signing away my life. For the last month, she has been signed off sick from work.COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES a player who would always sign autographs and chat with fans By indulging in casual sex, many teenagers could be signing their own death warrants. The signs are encouraging — but there’s a long way to go. a patient who is exhibiting classic symptoms of mental illness A ceasefire was declared as a sign of good faith. The vote is a hopeful sign that attitudes in the church are changing. His clenched fist was the only outward sign of his anger. The two countries signed a non-aggression pact. The Polish economy began to show signs of recovery. I dared not cry or show any sign of weakness.
The artist had signed his name in the corner of the painting. You forgot to sign the cheque. Over a hundred people have signed the petition. Serena signs her autograph every time she’s asked. I felt as if I was signing away my life. For the last month, she has been signed off sick from work.· The two countries have signed an agreement on military co-operation.
a player who would always sign autographs and chat with fans· You've forgotten to sign the cheque.
· He had signed a confession in front of witnesses.
· He signed a contract to become vice president of the football club.
· The singer has signed a $20 million deal with an American TV network.
By indulging in casual sex, many teenagers could be signing their own death warrants.· I couldn't see any signs of decay on the fruit.
· He showed no sign of emotion as the guilty verdict was read out.
The signs are encouraging — but there’s a long way to go. a patient who is exhibiting classic symptoms of mental illness (=one showing where an exit is)· There was a red glowing exit sign over the door.
(=one showing the names of places or roads near an exit)· Stay on the same road until you see an exit sign for Rhode Island.
A ceasefire was declared as a sign of good faith. The vote is a hopeful sign that attitudes in the church are changing.· The patient is showing signs of improvement.
(=agree to the legal details of a lease by signing it)· He refused to sign the new lease because the rent was too high.
· Sign your name here, please.
(=ones that use neon) the neon lights of Las Vegas
the neon lights of Las Vegas His clenched fist was the only outward sign of his anger. The two countries signed a non-aggression pact.· Five hundred villagers have signed the petition.
· I managed to get a signed photo of her.
· He keeps a signed photograph of Bill Clinton in his office.
The Polish economy began to show signs of recovery.· Headaches, migraines, and irritability are all signs of stress.· The effects of stress are subtle and sometimes difficult to see.
· India refused to sign the treaty.
· He considered the expensive car a visible sign of his achievement.
· Don’t ignore the warning signs of stress.
I dared not cry or show any sign of weakness. (=one of the 12 parts that this area is divided into) ‘Which sign of the zodiac were you born under?’ ‘Leo.’
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB ‘Which sign of the zodiac were you born under?’ ‘Leo.’· Well, I shall sign off now.· But not every Republican lawmaker signed off on the call to investigate the display.· Eventually the specification will be completed and signed off by the user department.· The drug regulators, however, asked for more information on its manufacturing and labeling before finally signing off on the drug.· It was fractionally too late when they signed off with three victories.· Question: How difficult was it for you, personally, to sign off on this deal?· It was time to sign off before familiarity bred contempt, and just in case it already had I decided to hurt her.· Dalton, a 1964 academy graduate who spoke on honor at the academy last week, must sign off on the expulsion.
· I was over-qualified and signing on and I realised there was more money to be made taking my clothes off.· His pal Stretch, for whom anything new is a potential high, decides to sign on with him.· Medicaid was created in 1966, but Arizona was the last state to sign on.· Lyle Walker, who runs the studio, signed on as Rimes' co-manager.· Many who visit the ship, or hear a crew member speak at their church, soon sign on as volunteers.· The date may seem a ways off, but Chan needs sponsors and participants to sign on now.· Gerald McRaney also has signed on.
· The second big concern is the reliability and longevity of the service you sign up to.· Ishmael signs up for the voyage and volunteers to bring Queequeg.· More than 1.5 million calls have swamped a free telephone bank set up a month ago by his employees to sign up volunteers.· But he hasn't been back since he signed up with Napster.· You could sign up for a series of courses, which you could take at your own pace.· Recruiters were ordered to sign up more high school graduates who showed high aptitudes for science, engineering and electronics.· However, a spokesman for the party said only those who had specifically signed up for text messaging would receive any communication.· But all students should have a purposeful course of study that goes beyond the formality of signing up for classes.
NOUN· They argue that they signed the Oslo accords seven years ago.· The two sides signed a peace accord in 1994 after a nine-year civil war that killed 500, 000.· They also signed an accord on the formation of a North-South Joint Reconciliation Committee.· The day before the signing of the last accord, Maya sorcerers prayed for peace in ancient capitals destroyed by the conquistadors.· In February, federal government negotiators signed an accord with the Zapatista rebels that calls for expanding indigenous rights.
· A three-way agreement was signed in May 1992.· These funds were only to be disbursed when the compact agreement had been signed.· He was also was among those who returned after a peace agreement was signed in 1993.· Separate agreements were signed on military cooperation and on the formation of an intergovernmental commission on trade, economic and scientific co-operation.· The agreement was signed on 7 April 1956.
· The bill was signed by Bush on Sept. 23 and then approved by the courts to allow Morgan's release.· The bill signed by Leavitt attempts to ban gay student groups without running afoul of this statute.· But any bill that gets signed by President Clinton will probably be watered down to the point that it is meaningless.· But many of the same provisions remain in the welfare reform bill signed by President Clinton last month.· While security forces worried about getting him safely to the Capitol, Lincoln already had ridden there to get some bills signed.· Republicans agreed to compromises that got the bill signed into law.
· All of you in our Service teams create the first impression after the contract has been signed.· Everyone else had been given new contracts to sign before they left.· Adtranz Signal has been selected as preferred bidder, with the formal contract to be signed shortly.· Though the contract has not been signed, it has been drawn up and the agreement is solid.· Some companies overlook the fact that the foreign exchange exposure arises when the sales contract is signed or the order accepted.· Design specifications for the research ship, for example, were still being finalized even after the design contract had been signed.· They discussed purchasing the rights to the treasure with the insurance companies, but no contracts were signed.· Each party will then hold the contract signed by the other.
· They have also signed a deal with Freeserve, the internet service provider, offering direct access for students.· Morris signed his secret deal with Random House almost exactly a year ago.· There would be an advance paid to the writer on signing the deal.· It is also the first such trial since Liggett group rocked the industry by signing a deal with those states.· I consciously signed this deal...· The company also got an undisclosed payment for signing the research deal.· Dottie Taylor, 63, recently signed a deal to lease her three-bedroom home in suburban Alpharetta for $ 14, 000.
· Li Shai Tung had been right to sign the boy's death warrant.· Now, they often sign their death warrants.· I have already signed the death warrant.· After a military treaty was signed in July, deaths on both sides resulted mostly from guerrilla-style operations.· If he does, he is signing his death warrant.· To attempt defection would be to sign their death warrants, and no man could be expected to do that.· Although he did not sign the king's death warrant, he was present at his execution.· He looked like a man who would sign a mean death certificate.
· The biggest achievement to date is to get dealers to sign a declaration that they are not dealing in conflict diamonds.· Eight of them had signed the Declaration of Independence eleven years before.
· It is very important to ensure that all clients understand those documents you invite them to sign.· In the end only thirty-nine signed the completed document.· He had signed the document disavowing me.· It lists basic questions homeowners answer before signing documents.· When he had finished writing the deceased asked Mr. Morgan and Miss Calagarri to sign the document as witnesses.· They signed their documents but within three weeks, the Abbey launched a new fixed rate of 8.65% until the year 2000.· Can you please complete and initial clause two, sign the documents and return them to me for signature here.
· Please remember that if the account is to be in joint names, then both parties must sign the form.· All they have to do then is sign the form and drop it in the mail.· To confirm the booking, you will be required to sign the completed Booking Form and pay the appropriate deposit.· In fact, some people would not sign the claim form, which contained a general release of Harvester.· Whenever waste changes hands, both parties must sign a form registering the transfer.· Passengers on scenic helicopters must sign a form in advance attesting to their weight.· And then they got me to sign a form, they didn't say what it was for.· She said afterward that Boxer was surprised to learn Wu did not sign a release form allowing for an autopsy.
· The president signed a series of laws reintroducing a peculiar mixture of conflicting symbols from the past.· He has signed into law several of his top agenda items, including a tougher juvenile justice code.· Governor William Donald Schaefer signed the bill into law within hours of its enactment by the House.· William Weld, a Republican, formed the state commission, and the next year signed a gay rights law.· President Clinton signed telecommunications reform into law last month.· It still must be passed by the Senate and signed into law by the president.· President Clinton signed a law last year that requires states to make information on sexually violent criminals available to the public.· In Los Angeles, a Reagan spokeswoman said the former president was pleased the line-item veto had finally been signed into law.
· Wilson plans to sign the legislation Monday.· Clinton has refused to sign GOP-backed legislation to reimburse the fired travel office personnel for their legal expenses.· On Sept. 9, 1957, the president signed legislation creating a six-member commission on civil rights.· President Clinton Saturday signed Republicancrafted legislation to pay about 750, 000 furloughed government workers, putting them back to work.· Truman did not actually sign the military aid legislation until July 26, 1950.· I am eager to sign legislation to make our legal system work better at less cost in a fairer way.· Pete Wilson, who signed the helmet legislation, said earlier this year that he still believes he made the right decision.
· Those who need more will have to sign a letter saying that their intent is not-for-profit.· Within six weeks, it was Ford who conceded, after seventy-six senators signed a letter demanding that he back off.· By signing this letter, you confirm that this is the case.· Prospects may begin signing letters of intent Wednesday.· They announced yesterday that they have signed a letter of intent to merge under the name Comarco International Inc.· Both have signed separate letters to their colleagues in support of the repeal.· We have signed a letter of intent and we are trying to find a solution to that.· The company has signed letters of intent with about 10 developers already.
· The potter has signed his name Alletio on a raised panel.· Some extend their billed baseball caps or hunch over and have the players sign their names on the back of their shirts.· Mr Rosenthal's charitable actions go much further than signing his name on checks.· Eight days later, the agreement was drafted and both sides met again at the summit and signed their names.· So sign your names, friends, or make a mark if need be.· He pulled out the piece of paper upon which earlier I had signed my name.· The importer signifies his acceptance to future payment by signing his name across the bill's face.· It was all signed in my name, made out in my name and everything.
· Mikoyan signs a trade pact with Che Guevara.
· Since the 1953 armistice the two sides have never signed a peace treaty.· Insurgents'; but in 1782 the latter signed a secret peace with Britain, abandoning their allies.· On May 21 Haqqani announced that Masud and Hekmatyar had agreed upon, but not signed, a five-point peace pact.
· Some 120 children and parents have signed a petition which is now being sent to Scarborough Council.· About two-thirds of the students in my property law class signed that petition.· Nothing now would have induced Meredith to sign his petition, whatever it had been for.· Alexis and Paul Gilmour are keen that everyone in Holybourne who wishes to sign the petition can do so.· They risked their lives and signed petitions even in the most repressive states.· Townspeople are being asked to sign a petition to help save the bus passes of Langbaurgh's 22,000 pensioners and disabled.· Back in 1930, over a thousand economists signed a petition begging Congress not to pass something called the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act.
· The president signed a series of laws reintroducing a peculiar mixture of conflicting symbols from the past.· On Sept. 9, 1957, the president signed legislation creating a six-member commission on civil rights.· But everyone understands why the president signed it.· The president who signed the 1986 bill into law: Ronald Reagan.· The resolution passed both houses before the zero hour and the President signed it.· The black-out protest is expected to pick up steam after the president signs the bill.· Soon after the president signs the deployment orders this week, troops will begin to move into the country, Bacon said.· Jesse Jackson have criticized the president for signing the welfare act.
· A total of 81 of the importing countries had not signed the Montreal Protocol. 6.· They signed a protocol on interim measures to establish peacekeeping forces and military observers.· All three signed the Lisbon protocol, which obliges them to become non-nuclear.· On Nov. 16, it signed a protocol with the government on co-operation in negotiating work contracts and pensions.· Diplomatic relations were established with each state and he signed protocols on regular consultations at Foreign Minister level.
· He was made to sign the statement.· He signed a statement saying it was true.· Had it been signed, the statement would have had far-ranging benefits.· Devout Hindus, with large religious followings, signed that statement.· Wherever time permits, it is advisable to get the defendant personally to sign the statement of truth.· Irvin refused to sign the statement.· Mrs. Steed died not long after she signed her statement on 16 December 1985.· All 125 of them have signed statements affirming they are Christians, Rosenthal said.
· It is a tendentious point, since the convention is that treaties are always signed by the executive.· The goal is to write a legally binding treaty that would be signed in December by as many countries as possible.· A treaty was to be signed later.· The Partial Test Ban Treaty was signed a few weeks later, prohibiting nuclear tests in the atmosphere.· After a military treaty was signed in July, deaths on both sides resulted mostly from guerrilla-style operations.· Even if the Treaty had been signed, the Court would hold it to be unreviewable.
· I have already signed the death warrant.· Now, they often sign their death warrants.· If he does, he is signing his death warrant.· Of 120 members nominated, forty-seven never sat; of the remainder, twenty-seven did not sign the death warrant.
VERB· Consequently, the master or captain of the tanker or dry bulk shipment vessel may reasonably be expected to sign each bill.· The agreement in principle was expected to be signed at the Washington summit.· President Clinton is expected to sign it.· President Clinton also is expected to sign off on the plan.· President Clinton has been an advocate of the measure and is expected to sign it into law.
· If the defendant refuses to sign warning bells should ring.· Star players like Johnny Damon are traded because they refuse to sign long-term contracts.· Talked about it not being good for my health if I refused to sign.· When Keyishian refused to sign a certificate stating he was not a Communist, his contract was not renewed.· The 15,000-strong rebel group has participated in peace talks with President Andres Pastrana but has refused to sign a ceasefire.· Clinton has refused to sign GOP-backed legislation to reimburse the fired travel office personnel for their legal expenses.· There was speculation over Mr Portillo's motives in refusing to sign.· Irvin refused to sign the statement.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► (all) signed and sealed► sign somebody ↔ in► sign somebody off► sign something ↔ off► sign something ↔ out► sign somebody ↔ out► sign somebody ↔ up► sign a bill/legislation/agreement into lawPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
- Clients sign contracts to become participants and agree to adhere to a rigorous schedule.
- It took more than a month to find and sign a contract with another company to complete the remaining work.
- Kiptanui rushed off, saying he was going to make Kimeli sign a contract.
- Paup had wanted to sign a contract extension with Green Bay during the 1994 season, but the Packers never approached him.
- Pre-season David Campese signed a contract with commercial broadcaster Channel Ten.
- The lead police detective signed a contract with a television movie production company.
- You must stop your ears whenever you are asked to sign a treaty selling your home.
- But how many of these companies forget about you once you've signed on the dotted line.
- However, before signing on the dotted line, you should think carefully about the risks and the costs.
- It all seemed easy - they sign on the dotted line and Balbinder would be virtually taken out of their hands.
- The lucky 10, 000 have signed on the dotted line.
- You may want another approach to get people to sign on the dotted line.
- But, if you use cleaning products, you must follow the manufacturer's directions explicitly.
- He made his way quickly to Mrs Brooks' house, following the postman's directions.
- If you're using sterilising solution, follow the manufacturer's directions.
- One involves focus groups, where a representative customer is selected and asked to perform a task by following the enclosed directions.
- Process through a pasta machine following the manufacturer's directions.
- Here are five telltale signs that the Ego is in command: 1.
- Then skim through your document for their telltale signs.
- Would we allow the police to search the sacred precincts of marital bedrooms for telltale signs of the use of contraceptives?
- And disguising your vital signs can be attained-albeit with effort.
- He's a good weight, his vital signs are stable.
- He was conscious but still drowsy and his vital signs were stable.
- If problems have been identified during assessment, monitoring of vital signs and fluid balance may continue.
- Soon, all the vital signs improved, and Keynes looked like the hero of the century.
- The following instructions were given: To monitor vital signs and measure the central venous pressure, half hourly at first.
- Theatre staff usually wait until the patient's vital signs are stabilizing before allowing the patient to return to the ward.
- These rarely seen specialists administer local and general anesthesia, handle pain control and monitor your vital signs during the operation.
WORD FAMILYnounsignsignalsignatorysignaturesigningsignallerverbsignsignaladjectivesigned ≠ unsignedadverbsignally
1name [intransitive, transitive] to write your signature on something to show that you wrote it, agree with it, or were present: Sign here, please. The artist had signed his name in the corner of the painting. You forgot to sign the cheque. Over a hundred people have signed the petition. Serena signs her autograph every time she’s asked. a signed photo of Paul McCartney► see thesaurus at write2sign an agreement/contract/treaty etc to make a document, agreement etc official and legal by writing your signature on it: France has just signed a new trade deal with Japan.3music/sport [intransitive, transitive] if a football team or music company signs someone, or if someone signs for them, that person signs a contract in which they agree to work for them: CBS Records had signed her back in 1988 on a three-album contract.sign for/to/with Miller worked in the shipyards before signing for Rangers. Before long, they had signed with Virgin.4sign on the dotted line informal to officially agree to something by signing a contract: Make sure the repairs are done before you sign on the dotted line.5sign a bill/legislation/agreement into law if someone in authority signs something into law, they make it part of the law by signing an official document6(all) signed and sealed (also (all) signed, sealed, and delivered) with all the necessary legal documents signed: It’ll all be signed and sealed by Friday, and you can move in then.7use movements [intransitive] to try to tell someone something or ask them to do something by using signs and movements SYN signalsign to somebody to do something He signed to the maid to leave the room.sign for somebody to do something She signed for us to go inside.8language [intransitive, transitive] to use, or translate something into, sign language—signer noun [countable]sign something ↔ away phrasal verb to sign a document that gives your property or legal rights to someone else: She had signed away all claims to the house. I felt as if I was signing away my life.sign for something phrasal verb to sign a document to prove that you have received something: This is a registered letter – someone will have to sign for it.sign in phrasal verb1to write your name on a form, in a book etc when you enter a place such as a hotel, office, or club: Remember to sign in at reception.2sign somebody ↔ in to write someone else’s name in a book so that they are allowed to enter a club, an office etcsign off phrasal verb1informal to end a radio or television programme by saying goodbye2to write your final message at the end of an informal letter: It’s getting late, so I’ll sign off now. Love, John.3sign somebody off British English if a doctor signs someone off, he or she gives them a note saying that they are ill and not able to work: For the last month, she has been signed off sick from work.4sign something ↔ off British English, sign off on something American English to show that you approve of a plan or that something is finished by signing an official document: Major repainting work now needs to be signed off by a qualified engineer.sign on phrasal verb1British English to state officially that you are unemployed by signing a form, so that you can get money from the government2to sign a document to show that you agree to work for someonesign on as He signed on as a soldier in the US army.sign on with I’ll probably have to sign on with a nursing agency.sign out phrasal verb1to write your name in a book when you leave a place such as a hotel, an office, or a club2sign something ↔ out to write your name on a form or in a book to show that you have taken or borrowed something: Bernstein signed out a company car.3sign somebody ↔ out to write in a book that someone is allowed to leave somewhere such as a school, an office etc: Parents must sign pupils out when collecting them for doctor’s or dentist’s appointments.sign something ↔ over phrasal verb to sign an official document that gives your property or legal rights to someone elsesign over to When he became ill, he signed his property in France over to his son.sign up phrasal verb1to put your name on a list for something because you want to take part in itsign up for I’m thinking of signing up for a yoga course.sign up to do something Over half the people who signed up to do engineering were women.2 sign somebody ↔ up if someone is signed up by an organization, they sign a contract in which they agree to work for that organization: Several well-known researchers have been signed up for the project.