Defining Signs

2. Signs: "Anything from which meanings may be generated (such as words, images, sounds, gestures and objects)." --- R. Chandler

A sign, according to Saussure, is composed of
Sign refers to the active character of this signified/signifier relationship.
Signs work, that is make meaning, by the nature of their structural interrelationships.
To see meaning at work: search for implied or actual contrasts.