indicator

A measurement that helps show or predict changes in the economy.

• Unemployment is an important economic indicator.
• Several indicators suggest slower growth next year.
• Analysts watch these indicators before making forecasts.

Similar words: measure, index

Common phrases: economic indicator, leading indicator, growth indicator

A flashing light on a vehicle that shows which way the driver plans to turn.

• Use your indicator before turning.
• Her right indicator was flashing.
• He changed lanes without switching on his indicator.

Similar words: turn signal, blinker

Common phrases: left indicator, right indicator, indicator light

A device that shows a measurement or the state of a machine.

• Check the fuel indicator.
• The pressure indicator showed a sudden rise.
• A red indicator warns that the battery is low.

Similar words: gauge, meter

Common phrases: fuel indicator, pressure indicator, temperature indicator

The moving pointer or dial on a device that shows a measurement.

• The indicator moved toward zero.
• Watch the indicator as the pressure rises.
• A stuck indicator can give a false reading.

Similar words: pointer, needle

Common phrases: indicator needle, moving indicator, dial indicator

A substance that changes, often in color, to show a chemical amount or reaction.

• The indicator turned blue.
• Add a drop of indicator to the solution.
• We used an indicator to check the acidity of the water.

Common phrases: chemical indicator, acid indicator, indicator solution