beacon

noun
UK: /ˈbiː.kən/
US: /ˈbiː.kən/

  1. A light or fire that is lit in a high or prominent position as a warning, signal, or celebration.

    1. The beacon shone brightly. [ ] [ ]
    2. The coastal beacon guided ships safely through the treacherous waters. [ ] [ ]

  2. A person or thing that serves as a sign or symbol of something, especially something good.

    1. She was a beacon of hope. [ ] [ ]
    2. The school became a beacon of excellence in the community. [ ] [ ]

  3. A radio transmitter that emits a signal for navigational purposes.

    1. The plane followed the beacon. [ ] [ ]
    2. The emergency beacon helped rescuers locate the downed aircraft. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

signal inspiration signpost guide example light flare
beacon verb

  1. To act as a beacon; to guide or direct someone.

    1. The lighthouse beacons sailors. [ ] [ ]
    2. His courage beacons others to stand up for what is right. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "beacon" in English means: A light or fire that is lit in a high or prominent position as a warning, signal, or celebration., A person or thing that serves as a sign or symbol of something, especially something good., A radio transmitter that emits a signal for navigational purposes..

The phonetic transcription of "beacon" is /ˈbiː.kən/ in British English and /ˈbiː.kən/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "beacon": signal, inspiration, signpost, guide, example, light, flare.

Example usage of "beacon": "The beacon shone brightly.". More examples on the page.