1. [n]  a tower with a light that gives warning of shoals to passing ships
2. [n]  a radio station that broadcasts a directional signal for navigational purposes
3. [n]  a fire (usually on a hill or tower) that can be seen from a distance
4. [v]  guide with a beacon
5. [v]  shine like a beacon

1. \Bea"con\, n. [OE. bekene, AS. be['a]cen, b?cen; akin to
   OS. b?kan, Fries. baken, beken, sign, signal, D. baak, OHG.
   bouhhan, G. bake; of unknown origin. Cf. {Beckon}.]
   1. A signal fire to notify of the approach of an enemy, or to
      give any notice, commonly of warning.
            No flaming beacons cast their blaze afar. --Gay.
   2. A signal or conspicuous mark erected on an eminence near
      the shore, or moored in shoal water, as a guide to
      mariners.
   3. A high hill near the shore. [Prov. Eng.]
   4. That which gives notice of danger.
            Modest doubt is called The beacon of the wise.
                                                  --Shak.
   {Beacon fire}, a signal fire.
   

2. \Bea"con\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Beaconed} (?); p. pr. &
   vb. n. {Beaconing}.]
   1. To give light to, as a beacon; to light up; to illumine.
            That beacons the darkness of heaven.  --Campbell.
   2. To furnish with a beacon or beacons.
   

a pole (Heb. to'ren) used as a standard or ensign set on the tops of mountains as a call to the people to assemble themselves for some great national purpose (Isa. 30:17). In Isa. 33:23 and Ezek. 27:5, the same word is rendered "mast." (See Banner.)