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Dictionary

bea•con

Pronunciation: (bē'kun), [key]
—n.
1. a guiding or warning signal, as a light or fire, esp. one in an elevated position.
2. a tower or hill used for such purposes.
3. a lighthouse, signal buoy, etc., on a shore or at a dangerous area at sea to warn and guide vessels.
4. Navig.
a. See radio beacon.
b. a radar device at a fixed location that, upon receiving a radar pulse, transmits a reply pulse that enables the original sender to determine his or her position relative to the fixed location.
5. a person, act, or thing that warns or guides.
6. a person or thing that illuminates or inspires: The Bible has been our beacon during this trouble.

—v.t.
1. to serve as a beacon to; warn or guide.
2. to furnish or mark with beacons: a ship assigned to beacon the shoals.

—v.i.
to serve or shine as a beacon: A steady light beaconed from the shore.