The term "signified" refers to the concept or meaning that a sign represents in semiotics, the study of signs and symbols. In this context, a sign consists of two parts: the "signifier," which is the form that the sign takes (like a word or image), and the "signified," which is the mental concept or idea associated with that sign. For example, the word tree is a signifier, while the actual concept of a tree—its characteristics and qualities—is the signified. Understanding the relationship between the signifier and the signified is crucial for effective communication. When we see the word dog, we don't just recognize the letters; we also conjure up the idea of a dog, including its traits and behaviors. This relationship helps us convey and interpret meanings in language, art, and other forms of expression, making it a fundamental aspect of how we understand the world around us.