signifier

One that signifies.

A linguistic unit or pattern, such as a succession of speech sounds, written symbols, or gestures, that conveys meaning; a linguistic sign. The signifier of the concept “tree” is, in English, the string of speech sounds (t), (r), and (ē); in German, (b), (ou), and (m).

One who or that which signifies, indicates, or makes known.

The sound of spoken word or string of letters on a page that a person recognizes as a sign.

the phonological or orthographic sound or appearance of a word that can be used to describe or identify something