beacon

beacon [bē′kən]

n.

[ME beken < OE beacen, becen < Gmc * baukna, prob. < IE * bhāu-, var. of base * bhā-, to gleam, shine > Gr phainein, to show, appear]

1. a signal fire, esp. one on a hill, pole, etc.

2. any light or radio signal for warning or guiding

3. a lighthouse

4. a radio transmitter that sends out signals for the guidance of aircraft, as at night or in fog

5. a person or thing that warns, offers encouragement or guidance, etc.

vt.

1. to light up (darkness, etc.)

2. to provide or mark with beacons

vi.

to shine or serve as a beacon