SIGN OF THE TIMES Definition & Meaning

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sign of the times

[ sahyn uhv thuh tahymz ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

idiom

an event, action, etc., that reveals an important trend in the culture, economy, or environment:
I’m seeing a lot more cyclists on my commute—must be a sign of the times, or maybe just gas prices.
The people I talk to don’t see these layoffs as a reflection on the company, but rather a sign of the times.
Christianity. an event that seems to fulfill prophecy, especially prophecy relating to the Judgment or the return of Jesus Christ:
In his book about life in the last days before the Second Coming, he lists many signs of the times apparent in our generation.

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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of sign of the times¹

First recorded in 1520–30

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

In what may be a sign of the times, and not an especially healthy one, my readers and friends recently have been filling my email inbox with questions about whether Donald Trump and White House insiders have been manipulating the stock market with his vacillating announcements about tariffs and the economy.

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“What we’re seeing in Hollywood is a sign of the times,” said Harper, who has worked with and advised studios and entertainment companies on DEI programs.

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Being tired is linked to something deeper than just overwork or a sign of the times.

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And former President Bill Clinton saw Mr. Musk’s growing influence in President-elect Donald Trump’s inner circle as a sign of the times.

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Disturbing, to be sure, and a grim sign of the times.

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