indicator

 
Pronunciation: /ˈɪndɪkeɪtə/

noun

  • 1a thing that indicates the state or level of something: car ownership is frequently used as an indicator of affluence
  • 2a device providing specific information on the state or condition of something, in particular:
  • [usually with modifier] a gauge or meter of a specified kind: a speed indicator
  • British a board or screen in a railway station, airport, etc. giving current information: [with modifier]: the indicator board
  • 3British a flashing light or (formerly) other device on a vehicle to show that it is about to change lanes or turn: [with modifier]: an indicator light
  • 4 Chemistry a compound which changes colour at a specific pH value or in the presence of a particular substance, and can be used to monitor acidity, alkalinity, or the progress of a reaction: the remaining alkali is titrated against standard acid using phenolphthalein as indicator
  • 5 (also indicator species) an animal or plant species which can be used to infer conditions in a particular habitat: the raccoon is a poor choice as an indicator of riparian habitat

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