noun
indicator
IHN-dih-kay-tuh
noun
1
Something that shows or points to a condition, trend, or measurement.
"GDP growth is a key economic indicator."
2
(UK) The flashing light on a vehicle used to signal a turn.
"His indicator was still blinking long after he'd turned."
3
A dial, gauge, or needle that shows a reading.
"The fuel indicator showed the tank was nearly empty."
How to Use Indicator
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething that points to or measures a condition — could be an economic figure, a gauge, or (in the UK) a car's turn signal.
UK vs US
"Indicator" for a car's turn signal is standard British usage; Americans call it a "turn signal" or "blinker."
Common pairings
economic indicator
leading indicator
indicator light
Word Forms
indicators plural
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GDP growth is a key economic _____.
Etymology
From Late Latin indicator, "one who points out," from indicare, "to indicate."