1.A signal fire to notify of the approach of an enemy, or to give any notice, commonly of warning. "No flaming beacons cast their blaze afar."
2.A signal, such as that from a lighthouse, or a conspicuous mark erected on an eminence near the shore, or moored in shoal water, as a guide to mariners.
3.A high hill near the shore. (Prov. Eng.)
4.That which gives notice of danger. "Modest doubt is called The beacon of the wise."
5.(Navigation) A radio transmitter which emits a characteristic signal indication its location, so that vehicles may determine their exact location by locating the beacon with a radio compass; also called radio beacon.
6.(fig.) That which provides guidance or inspiration; the Constitution has been a beacon for civil rights activists.
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