1. signals or lights used to guide or warn, especially for ships or aircraft
Usage: nautical; aviation
2. sources of inspiration, hope, or guidance
Usage: figurative
3. tall structures or towers that emit light or radio signals

Examples

• The lighthouse beacons warned ships away from the rocky coast.
• Radio beacons help pilots navigate in poor weather conditions.
• The mountain peaks served as natural beacons for the hikers.
• These schools are beacons of excellence in education.
• The emergency beacons transmitted distress signals to rescue teams.
• Historical figures often become beacons of hope for future generations.
• The cell phone towers act as beacons for wireless communication.