1. A tower with a light that gives warning of shoals to passing ships
   "The beacon beam swept across the dark waters, guiding ships to safety";
   - lighthouse, beacon light, pharos [archaic]
    
2. A fire (usually on a hill or tower) that can be seen from a distance
   "In ancient times, beacon fires were used to warn of approaching enemies";
   - beacon fire
    
3. A radio station that broadcasts a directional signal for navigational purposes
   "The pilot used the radio beacon to guide the plane to the airport";
   - radio beacon
    
4. Something that serves as a model or guide
   "Her mother's example was a beacon through difficult times";
   - lodestar, loadstar, pole star, guiding light

1. Guide with a beacon
   "The lighthouse beaconed ships safely into the harbour"
    
2. Shine like a beacon
   "The lighthouse beaconed across the stormy sea"

Derived forms: beaconed, beaconing, beacons

Type of: beam, conduct, direct, example, guide, lead, model, radio station, shine, take, tower, visual signal

Encyclopedia: Beacon, NY