Noun

Singular semaphore

Plural semaphores

semaphore (plural semaphores)

1. Any visual signaling system with flags, lights, or mechanically moving arms.
2. A visual system for transmitting information by means of two flags that are held one in each hand, using an alphabetic and numeric code based on the position of the signaler’s arms.
3. (computing) A bit, token, fragment of code, or some other mechanism which is used to restrict access to a shared function or device to a single process at a time, or to synchronize and coordinate events in different processes.

Verb

Infinitive to semaphore

Third person singular semaphores

Simple past semaphored

Past participle semaphored

Present participle semaphoring

to semaphore (third-person singular simple present semaphores, present participle semaphoring, simple past and past participle semaphored)

1. (transitive, intransitive) To signal using (or as if using) a semaphore.
   • He semaphored his intention by wearing his best suit.

Semaphore