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DictionaryplacardPublic sign
noun / verb

placard

PLAK-ard/ˈplækɑːrd/

A sign displayed in public, or to display such signs.

The placard beside the path announces that the park is closed.

A large public placard on a portable easel beside a park path displays only the brief functional word CLOSED.
Etymology
placardOld Frenchofficial document with a large, flat seal

Placquard named an official document bearing a large, flat seal. The meaning shifted from an authenticated document to a proclamation or announcement posted publicly to attract attention.

In context

Storytime Haven62:57
At Victoria and on all the bill boards we met I see an enormous placard, bearing the word ’Klimo. ’
A Prince of Swindlers 👑💰 | A Tale of Deceit and Adventure by Guy Boothby

More examples

  • The marchers carry placards calling for cleaner drinking water.
  • A small placard beside the painting identifies the artist.
  • Workers placard the building's entrances with safety warnings.

Forms

placard · placards · placarded · placarding

Similar words

sign
A broader term covering public notices, labels, and symbols.
poster
Usually a large printed sheet for advertising, information, or decoration.
notice
Emphasizes the written announcement rather than its physical display.