significance

noun

sig·​nif·​i·​cance sig-ˈni-fi-kən(t)s How to pronounce significance (audio)
Synonyms of significance
1
a
: something that is conveyed as a meaning often obscurely or indirectly
b
: the quality of conveying or implying
2
a
: the quality of being important : moment
b
: the quality of being statistically significant

Synonyms of significance

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importance, consequence, moment, weight, significance mean a quality or aspect having great worth or significance.

importance implies a value judgment of the superior worth or influence of something or someone.

a region with no cities of importance

consequence generally implies importance because of probable or possible effects.

the style you choose is of little consequence

moment implies conspicuous or self-evident consequence.

a decision of great moment

weight implies a judgment of the immediate relative importance of something.

the argument carried no weight with the judge

significance implies a quality or character that should mark a thing as important but that is not self-evident and may or may not be recognized.

the treaty's significance

Examples of significance in a Sentence

The discovery has great significance to researchers. His age is of little significance. This building should be preserved because of its historical significance. Does the ceremony have any religious significance? Her work has a significance that will last beyond her lifetime. I failed to understand the significance of her remarks. Does the date March 16 have some special significance to you? People in ancient times assigned a particular significance to the number seven.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This exhibit showcases a collection of American flags and highlights additional objects that show the significance of the flag as a symbol of strength in the face of adversity, Hillman said. — Kerry Burke, New York Daily News, 31 Aug. 2026 The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation members will meet in Kyrgyzstan to discuss energy and security, both of which have taken on new regional significance since the start of the US-Israel war against Iran. — Jeronimo Gonzalez, semafor.com, 31 Aug. 2026 No one should underestimate the mortal significance of medical discreetness; researchers are well aware that many patients risk their own health due to the stigma associated with requiring medical help. — New Atlas, 30 Aug. 2026 Getty Images For Belichick, the significance would go well beyond extending an unusual statistical trend. — Giovanni Malloy, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for significance

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of significance was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing significance

Rhymes for significance

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Browse Nearby Words

signific
significance
significance level
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Cite this Entry

“Significance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/significance. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

significance

noun
sig·​nif·​i·​cance sig-ˈnif-i-kən(t)s How to pronounce significance (audio)
1
: meaning entry 1 sense 1
2
: the quality of being of notable worth or influence
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