Signified

The signified is the category or concept that pops up in one's head due to the signifier (the sound-image of the word). It upholds an arbitrary connection with the signifier and the sign. In other words, there is no logical connection between a signifier and a signified, but, there are social constructions that connect the two. An example would be the word "cat." The sound or image of the word "cat" will spark a category or idea about the word "cat" in someone's head. However, the word "cat" does not define or explain what a cat actually is - it is just a label attached to the animal.

Background

The term comes from the study of semiotics - the study of sign processes and meaningful communication. The term came from Swiss linguist Ferdinand de Saussure. The term - along with signifier - were utilized to aid in breaking down what a sign was.

Uses in other disciplines

Many terms are used beyond Media Studies or come from other fields, mention those here.

See also

signifier Make connections and links to connected keyterms and articles. Remember to consult the guide for links.

References

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