Definitions

sign of the times

[sahyn uhv thuh tahymz] / ˈsaɪn əv ðə ˈtaɪmz /

NOUN

straw in the wind

Synonyms

WEAK

harbinger indication indicator omen portent sign slight hint

NOUN

writing on the wall

Synonyms

WEAK

fair warning fate foretaste hunch omen portent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Instead, in a sign of the times that seems impossibly quaint in the harsh light of 2026, she issued a somber mea culpa.

From Slate • May 6, 2026

That other businesses, too, are reviving deals is a sign of the times.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 16, 2025

Another sign of the times: Meme-stock ETF is back from the dead.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 10, 2025

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

From Salon • Jan. 16, 2025

From seminary to corrections academy: a sign of the times.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover