---
title: "Definition of Signal"
url: https://signalscreener.fr/definition/macd-signal/
markdown_url: https://signalscreener.fr/definition/macd-signal.md
description: "A 9-day exponential moving average of the MACD line, used to generate trading signals when it crosses the MACD."
type: glossary-definition
site: Signal Screener
language: en
keywords:
  - "Signal"
  - "MACD Signal Line"
translations:
  de: https://signalscreener.fr/de/definition/macd-signal.md
  es: https://signalscreener.fr/es/definition/macd-signal.md
  fr: https://signalscreener.fr/fr/definition/macd-signal.md
  it: https://signalscreener.fr/it/definition/macd-signal.md
  pt: https://signalscreener.fr/pt/definition/macd-signal.md
  zh: https://signalscreener.fr/zh/definition/macd-signal.md
---

# MACD Signal Line

## What is Signal?

A 9-day exponential moving average of the MACD line, used to generate trading signals when it crosses the MACD.

## Think of it like this

Like a slower-moving average that smooths out the MACD's movements - crossovers between them trigger buy/sell signals.

## Formula

```
Signal Line = 9-day EMA of MACD
```

- **MACD**: 12-day EMA - 26-day EMA
- **Signal Line**: 9-day exponential moving average of MACD
- **Crossover**: When MACD crosses signal line

## Why it matters

- Identifies momentum changes earlier than price
- Crossovers provide clear buy/sell signals
- Confirms trend direction
- Used by traders worldwide for timing entries/exits

## What's a good value?

| Range | Rating | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| MACD > Signal | Bullish | Upward momentum - potential buy signal |
| MACD < Signal | Bearish | Downward momentum - potential sell signal |
| Bullish Crossover | Buy Signal | MACD crosses above signal |
| Bearish Crossover | Sell Signal | MACD crosses below signal |

## Real-world example

When MACD crosses above the signal line, it's a bullish signal suggesting upward momentum - traders may buy.

---

This is educational content, not financial advice.

Source: [Definition of Signal](https://signalscreener.fr/definition/macd-signal/) on Signal Screener. Free to quote and cite with attribution and a link to that URL, which is the canonical one.

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