distress signal

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.

The increase represents yet another distress signal coming from within the housing market.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 10, 2026

"The Colombian boat was adrift and had its distress signal on," Petro said, referring to the strike that killed Carranza.

From Barron's • Oct. 19, 2025

Only minutes after sending a distress signal on 25 August, the ship had sunk in heavy seas.

From BBC • Jul. 24, 2024

It apparently drifted in the rough seas and was blown by the strong wind, and the captain sent a distress signal about five hours later, saying his ship hit the rocks, the coast guard said.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 3, 2024

I know all about hornets: If one sends out a distress signal, it can trigger a whole nest attack.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson