signify

 
Pronunciation: /ˈsɪgnɪfʌɪ/

verb (signifies, signifying, signified)

  • 1 [with object] be an indication of: this decision signified a fundamental change in their priorities
  • be a symbol of; have as meaning: the church used this image to signify the Holy Trinity
  • (of a person) indicate or declare (a feeling or intention): signify your agreement by signing the letter below
  • [no object, with negative] be of importance: the locked door doesn’t necessarily signify
  • 2 [no object] US informal (among black Americans) exchange boasts or insults as a game or ritual: I wasn’t signifying at her

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French signifier, from Latin significare 'indicate, portend', from signum 'token'