signified

[ˈsɪɡnɪfaɪd]
noun, verb (past tense and past participle)pl: signifieds (noun only)
significado
1. The meaning or concept represented by a sign or symbol (noun, linguistics/semiotics term)
In semiotics, the signified is the concept or meaning behind the signifier.
Em semiótica, o significado é o conceito ou sentido por trás do significante.
2. Made known or indicated; communicated or expressed (verb, past tense)
She signified her agreement by nodding.
Ela significou seu acordo acenando com a cabeça.
3. Had importance or consequence; was significant (verb, past tense, formal)
The treaty signified a major shift in diplomatic relations.
O tratado significou uma grande mudança nas relações diplomáticas.
The term 'signified' is primarily used in academic contexts, particularly in linguistics, semiotics, and philosophy. It gained prominence through the work of Ferdinand de Saussure. In everyday English (both American and Brazilian Portuguese), the verb form 'signified' means 'indicated' or 'meant,' while the noun form is specialized to theoretical discourse.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
meantindicateddenotedrepresentedexpressed
Antonyms / Antônimos
concealedobscuredhidden

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
significado
Used in both linguistic and general contexts
Portugal
significado
Same usage as Brazilian Portuguese; common in academic contexts
General American English
N/A
Primarily used in academic and formal discourse

Related Words

signifysignifiersignmeaningsymbolsemiotics

Related Idioms & Phrases

signify nothing - mean nothing or be of no importance
what does it signify - what does it matter
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