Wigwags

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. A type of signaling or warning system characterized by alternating lights or flags, often used in traffic control or railway operations
  2. Referring to movement that alternates back and forth, resembling a wagging motion, typically in a playful or lively manner
  3. To indicate or direct attention by means of gestures or signals that vary in position or activity

Etymology: The term "wigwag" has its origins in the early 19th century, likely deriving from the American English phrase "wigwagging," which mimicked the movement of a flag or signal being waved back and forth. The word is believed to be imitative in nature, echoing the action it describes. This playful, onomatopoeic quality captures the essence of signaling, as though the word were a visual representation of the back-and-forth motion itself. Initially, "wigwag" referred specifically to the motion of flags used for signaling, particularly in military contexts where visual communication was vital. The practice of wigwagging flags became a practical method for conveying messages over distances, especially in situations where verbal communication was impossible or impractical. By the mid-1800s, the term began to gain wider usage, extending beyond military signaling to refer to any sort of back-and-forth movement or oscillation. As the term evolved, it also took on a more abstract meaning, referring to any kind of indecisive or vacillating behavior. This shift from a concrete action to an abstract concept reflects the broader adaptability of language, where physical actions can give rise to metaphorical interpretations. The playful sound of the word itself seems to lend itself well to these varied meanings, capturing both the literal and figurative movements it describes. In contemporary usage, "wigwags" can refer to various forms of signaling devices, including traffic signals that oscillate between states, as well as to any situation that involves shifting positions or opinions. The evolution of this term from a specific military practice to a more generalized concept exemplifies the dynamic nature of language, where words can oscillate in meaning just as they do in their original motion.

Synonyms: flashing signals, indicators, signals, markers, guides