1  a strong light that can be seen from far away and that is used to help guide ships, airplanes, etc.

2  a radio signal that is broadcast to help guide ships, airplanes, etc.

• a radio beacon

3  someone or something (such as a country) that guides or gives hope to others

• These countries are beacons of democracy.
• Our nation should be a beacon of/for peace to people around the world.
• This new medicine is a beacon of hope for/to thousands of people.