Explanation
The perceptible expressive aspect of a sign in the dyadic sign model. In the atlas, the term is not treated in isolation: it opens up the formal aspect of the dyadic sign model. This reveals the distinctions that form enables and how it relates to adjacent phenomena.
Example
The sound sequence “Baum” is the signifier of the German word.
Counterexample
The real tree outside the sign is not the signified.
Distinction
The real tree outside the sign is not the signified.
Effect on thought and perception
The concept draws attention to the form aspect of the dyadic sign model. What previously appeared to be a unified process becomes perceptible as a structured relationship.
Resonance
Resonance arises when the signifier is not merely named but experienced as a movement between form, expectation, and effect.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Signifier“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-088-027. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-088-027The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.