indication
UK: ˌɪndɪˈkeɪʃən | US: ˌɪndɪˈkeɪʃən
n. a sign or piece of information that suggests or shows something
n. the action of indicating or pointing something out
n. (Medicine) a symptom or circumstance that suggests the appropriateness of a particular treatment
The word "indication" traces back to Latin indicatio, derived from indicare ("to point out, declare"), combining in- (toward) and dicare (to proclaim, say). The root dic- appears in many English words (e.g., "dictate," "predict") and retains its core meaning of "speaking" or "declaring." Over time, "indication" evolved to broadly signify any act of showing, signaling, or suggesting—whether through words, signs, or evidence.
Dark clouds are often an indication of approaching rain.
The doctor noted the patient's fever as an indication of infection.
Her silence was a clear indication of disapproval.
The study found no indication of harmful side effects.
Early voting trends provide an indication of the election outcome.