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Showing results for distress signal. Search instead for messsignal.
Definitions

distress signal

NOUN
internationally recognized signal requesting help
Synonyms
STRONGEST
warning signal
WEAK
Mayday SOS alarm burglar alarm call for help danger signal fire alarm flare notice to mariners signal of distress

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

Sea Story, a live-aboard used mainly for maritime activities, sent a distress signal after a large wave crashed into the boat, causing it to capsize.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2024

Six people were on board the Naddoddur when it got into trouble on Tuesday evening, on the fourth day of the trip, and a distress signal was sent.

From BBC • Aug. 28, 2024

Mayday used to be a distress signal, a long time ago, in one of those wars we studied in high school.

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.