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semaphore

   Also found in: Encyclopedia, Wikipedia, Hutchinson 0.09 sec.
sem·a·phore  (sm-fôr, -fr)
n.
1. A visual signaling apparatus with flags, lights, or mechanically moving arms, as one used on a railroad.
2. A visual system for sending information by means of two flags that are held one in each hand, using an alphabetic code based on the position of the signaler's arms.
tr. & intr.v. sem·a·phored, sem·a·phor·ing, sem·a·phores
To send (a message) or to signal by semaphore.

[Greek sma, sign + -phore.]

sema·phoric adj.
sema·phori·cal·ly adv.

semaphore
Noun
a system of signalling by holding two flags in different positions to represent letters of the alphabet
Verb
[-phoring, -phored]
to signal (information) by semaphore [Greek sēma a signal + -phoros carrying]

semaphore
any of various types of signaling systems using flags, mechanical arms, etc. — semaphorist, n.semaphoric, semaphorical, adj.
See also: Flags
ThesaurusLegend:  Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
Noun1.semaphoresemaphore - an apparatus for visual signaling with lights or mechanically moving arms
apparatus, setup - equipment designed to serve a specific function
Verb1.semaphore - send signals by or as if by semaphore
signal, signalise, signalize, sign - communicate silently and non-verbally by signals or signs; "He signed his disapproval with a dismissive hand gesture"; "The diner signaled the waiters to bring the menu"
2.semaphore - convey by semaphore, of information
communicate, intercommunicate - transmit thoughts or feelings; "He communicated his anxieties to the psychiatrist"
Translations
Spanish semaphore [ˈsɛməfɔːʳ] nsemáforo
French semaphore [ˈsɛməfɔːʳ] nsignaux mpl à bras;
(Rail) → sémaphore m

German semaphore [ˈsɛməfɔːʳ] nFlaggenalphabet nt
Italian semaphore [ˈsɛməfɔːʳ] nsegnali mpl con bandiere;
(RAIL) → semaforo

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, the semaphores of the Bahama Canal signaled a thick smoke on the horizon.
 
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