Word of the Day - 12/27/25
semiotics
/,simi'ɑtɪks/(n.): the study of signs and symbols and their use or interpretation
Semiotics examines how a company's logo communicates its brand values through visual signs and symbols.
Word Origin
The word 'semiotics' originates from the Greek word 'semeiōtikos' (σημειωτικός), meaning 'pertaining to signs'. This in turn derives from 'semeiōsis' (σημείωσις), 'observation of signs', and 'semeion' (σημεῖον), meaning 'sign, mark, token'. The suffix '-ics' is commonly used in English to denote a science or field of study. Thus, 'semiotics' literally refers to the study of signs and symbols and their interpretation.
Words with a similar origin, sharing the Greek root 'semeion' or related terms like 'sema' (sign), include 'semaphore' (a system of sending messages by holding two flags in certain positions as signs), and 'semasiology' (the branch of linguistics concerned with meaning).