beacon

/ˈbiː.kən/
noun
  1. A light or signal that warns or guides, especially on a hill, tower, or at sea.
    • The lighthouse beacon guided ships safely to the harbor.
    • The airport uses a rotating beacon to help pilots locate the runway.
    • From the hilltop, the beacon could be seen for miles across the dark ocean.
  2. A person or thing that provides guidance, inspiration, or hope.
    • The charity serves as a beacon for those in need.
    • The old teacher was a beacon of wisdom for generations of students.
    • Her kindness was a beacon of hope for the entire community.
  3. A radio or electronic signal used for navigation or to transmit information.
    • Hikers carry an emergency beacon in case they get lost.
    • The satellite sends out a beacon that helps track its position.
    • The Bluetooth beacon in the store sends special offers to shoppers' phones.
Synonyms
verb
  1. To shine or signal like a beacon; to guide or warn.
    • The lighthouse beacons every few seconds to warn ships of the rocks.
    • The stars beaconed to the travelers through the clear night sky.
    • Her smile beaconed a warm welcome to the new students.
What does "beacon" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean