1. Noticeable; distinguished from what is usual; eminent; remarkable; memorable; as, a
signal exploit; a
signal service; a
signal act of benevolence. "As
signal now in low, dejected state As erst in highest, behold
him where he lies." (Milton)
2. Of or pertaining to signals, or the
use of signals in conveying information; as, a
signal flag or officer. The
signal service, a
bureau of the
government (in the United States connected with the War Department) organised to collect from the
intact country
simultaneous raports of
local meteorological conditions,
upon collation of which at the central office, predictions concerning the
weather are telegraphed to different sections, where they are made known by signals publicly displayed. Signal station, the
seat where a
signal is displayed; specifically, an
observation office of the
signal service.
Synonym: Eminent, remarkable, memorable, extraordinary, notable, conspicuous.
Origin: From signal, n., cf. F. Signale.
Source: Websters Vocabulary