indication

noun

in·​di·​ca·​tion ˌin-də-ˈkā-shən 

1

a

: something that serves to indicate

b

: something that is indicated as advisable or necessary

2

: the action of indicating

indicational

ˌin-də-ˈkā-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Synonyms

• clue
• cue
• hint
• inkling
• intimation
• lead
• suggestion

Examples of indication in a Sentence

Her evaluation will give me a good indication of where I stand in the class.

There were indications that he was thinking of changing jobs.

Recent Examples on the Web

Soto, represented by hard-driving super agent Scott Boras, has shown no indication of offering charity to his new employer like Ohtani did. —David K. Li, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024

The company is subject to various risks, including dependence on successful clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and potential competition from other biotechnology firms targeting similar autoimmune disease indications. —Quartz Bot, Quartz, 7 Nov. 2024

Charles Franklin, Director, Marquette Law School Poll An unexpected Harris win in NC or GA would give an early indication favoring her. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024

But there are indications that the race between the parties is tightening further. —The New Yorker, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing indication

• every indication

Kids Definition

indication

noun

in·​di·​ca·​tion ˌin-də-ˈkā-shən 

1

: the action of indicating

2

: something that indicates : sign, suggestion

Medical Definition

indication

noun

in·​di·​ca·​tion ˌin-də-ˈkā-shən 

1

a

: a symptom or particular circumstance that indicates the advisability or necessity of a specific medical treatment or procedure

postpartum hemorrhage is the chief indication for the use of ergot preparations and derivatives

—C. H. Thienes

b

: something that is indicated as advisable or necessary

in case of collapse the immediate indication is artificial respiration

—The Journal of the American Medical Association

2

: the degree indicated in a specific instance or at a specific time on a graduated physical instrument (as a thermometer)