Initialled: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word derives from 'initial', which comes from the Latin 'initialis', meaning 'of the beginning'.
• The term has been used in English since at least the 16th century, showing its long-standing importance in writing and signatures.
• In legal documents, initialling is common to indicate agreement to each page, emphasizing the document's seriousness.

Legal Significance

• In contracts, initialling each page protects against alterations after signing.
• Initials can sometimes be used in place of a full signature in informal agreements, but this varies by context.
• Certain jurisdictions allow initials as valid symbols of consent, reinforcing their use in official papers.

Cultural Aspects

• In some cultures, initialling is a sign of trust and personal endorsement, reflecting a relationship between parties.
• Different regions may have cultural norms regarding the use of initials in formal documents, influencing how they are perceived.
• The art of calligraphy often emphasizes stylized initials, making them a decorative focal point in artistic documents.

Psychology

• Research indicates that people often feel a stronger commitment to agreements that they have initialled as it creates a sense of ownership.
• The act of initialling can enhance feelings of accountability, reinforcing the importance of personal agreement in shared decisions.
• Using initials may also simplify interactions, allowing parties to recognize agreements quickly without needing full names.

Pop Culture

• Initials often appear in celebrity branding, with individuals using their initials as logos or brand identities.
• In movies and literature, characters sometimes initial important documents to signify their roles or agreements within a plot.
• Popular songs and poems have referenced the idea of initials as a personal signature, symbolizing intimacy and connection.

This word's position of #32,436 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 32436 initialled
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