noun

significance

The meaning conveyed by something.

She asks about the significance of the symbol on the old coin.

Etymology

The Latin verb concerns making a sign or indicating. Significance names the meaning that a sign, statement, or event conveys.

More examples

  • The gesture's significance was unclear.
  • He explained the significance of the repeated phrase.
  • We missed the significance of her brief nod.

Forms

significance

Similar words

meaning
The plain term for what something conveys.
implication
Implication is a meaning suggested rather than directly expressed.