signifier

noun

1. Something or someone that signifies, makes something more significant or important.

   “If commentators have concurred on the characterization of Reagan as a synecdoche, they have also noted his status as a signifier.”

2. Something or someone that signifies, makes something more significant or important.
3. A sign, such as a written or spoken word, which refers to some concept, object or person, the signified.

   “Here things are getting better and better for women and people of color, and gay men and lesbians, more and more integrated and open, and all you can think about is some stupid, lame problem with signifiers and signifieds.”