Definition of "semaphore" []

• A visual signaling apparatus with flags, lights, or mechanically moving arms, as one used on a railroad. (noun)
• A visual system for sending information by means of two flags that are held one in each hand, using an alphabetic code based on the position of the signaler's arms. (noun)
• To send (a message) or to signal by semaphore. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "The semaphore is a quicker means of communication than the wig wag; but the wig wag can be used in a prone position under shelter."
• "Between ships and the land there are used what are called semaphore signals, which are made by means of a mast provided with three arms and a disk placed at the upper part."
• "The semaphore is a machine with two arms which may be moved into various positions to make letters."