Cue Meaning

Cue

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A signal or prompt to begin an action or behavior.
2. A hint or suggestion that helps someone know what to do or say next.
3. In theater or film, a signal to an actor or technician to perform a specific action, such as delivering a line or changing a scene.
4. A long, slender stick used in playing billiards, snooker, or pool.
5. A physical or verbal signal that helps someone remember or recall something.

History and Origin

The word “cue” comes from the Latin cauda, meaning “tail,” which was used in the 17th century to refer to a signal in theater, originally a “tail” of a speech or action. The term evolved to describe the action of signaling or prompting someone to act. The use of “cue” in billiards or snooker, referring to the stick used to strike the balls, emerged in the early 19th century.

Detailed Explanation

“Cue” refers to a signal or prompt that triggers an action or response. In various contexts, it can mean a hint or reminder about what to do next. In the theater or film industry, it is a direct signal given to performers or crew to indicate a change or action. Additionally, in sports like pool or billiards, a cue is the stick used to strike the balls. It can also refer to a subtle hint or action that helps someone recall information or take the next step in a sequence.

Example Sentences

1. The actor waited for his cue before delivering his line.
2. The coach gave the team a cue to start the drill.
3. She took his cue and decided to leave the party early.
4. The stage manager gave the cue to the lighting crew to dim the lights.
5. He missed the cue to hit the ball and lost the game.
6. The audience responded to the cue by applauding at the right moment.
7. I noticed her cue to leave, so I followed her to the door.
8. The cue from the orchestra signaled the start of the performance.
9. The teacher gave a subtle cue to remind the students to pay attention.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Signal – A gesture, sound, or symbol used to convey information or instructions.
2. Prompt – A suggestion or encouragement to take action, often used to help someone proceed.
3. Indication – A sign or hint that points to something or suggests the next move.
4. Hint – A subtle suggestion or clue to direct someone’s actions or thoughts.
5. Trigger – An action or event that initiates a process or response.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Direction – An instruction or guidance on how to proceed, often related to a cue in various contexts.
2. Reminder – A prompt to recall something or take action, similar to a cue.
3. Order – A directive or command that can act as a cue in some situations.
4. Gesture – A physical movement that can serve as a cue, such as a hand signal.
5. Clue – A piece of information that helps someone understand or decide the next step, like a cue.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Signalization – The act of signaling or giving cues, often used in traffic or communication contexts.
2. Mark – A point of reference or indication, often acting as a cue in a sequence of events.
3. Prompting – The act of giving someone a cue or reminder to encourage action.
4. Nudge – A gentle push or cue to prompt someone to take action or remember something.
5. Lead – A guiding action or suggestion that serves as a cue for the next step.

Antonyms

1. Oblivion
2. Confusion
3. Indifference
4. Neglect
5. Inaction