28:3 · With its point downward the equilateral triangle adopts a negative spectrum of meaning. In alchemy it represents water, the passive element. With a line, or , it becomes the element of earth. In both the US and the British systems of hobo signs it means spoiled, too many have been here. As a traffic sign it means give way to crossing traffic.
    Even in the astrological system of elements stands for water, and in certain meteorological systems it is used to denote rain showers, although it is more common to use the single-axis symmetric triangle, , for this meaning.
    This downward pointing triangle has also become a symbol for male homosexuality and gay movements. The SS during World War II forced homosexuals in concentration camps to wear such a triangle in rose colour as a distingushing mark.