Signatures: meaning, definitions and examples

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signatures

[ˈsɪɡnɪtʃərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

legal document

A signature is a person's name written in a distinctive way as a form of identification or authorization on a document.

Synonyms

autograph, mark, seal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
signatures	Used when referring to the written names of individuals, typically on documents to show approval or agreement. The contract requires the signatures of both parties. Please collect all the signatures before submitting the petition.
autograph	Often used when referring to the signed name of a famous person, typically given as a souvenir or for fan collections. The young fan was thrilled to get the celebrity's autograph. She has an impressive collection of autographs from famous athletes.
mark	A more general term that can refer to any kind of symbol, line, or impression made as an indicator or identifier. It can sometimes imply an informal or unofficial sign. Please place a mark next to your choice on the ballot. The treasure map had an 'X' mark to show where to dig.
seal	Used when referring to an official stamp or emblem that authenticates a document. It implies formality and authority. The official document bore the seal of the state governor. Important letters were often closed with a wax seal in olden times.

Examples of usage

The contract requires both parties to provide their signatures.
Please sign at the bottom of the page with your signature.
The signature on the will was found to be forged.
The artist's signature at the bottom corner of the painting was barely legible.
She recognized the signature as belonging to her long-lost friend.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

unique personal style

A signature can also refer to a distinctive characteristic or style that is characteristic of a particular person, place, or thing.

Synonyms

characteristic, distinctive, unique.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
signatures	Generally used when referring to a person's written name as a form of identification, or metaphorically for something that distinctly identifies a person or thing, like a trademark. I need your signature on this document. Her signature style includes bold colors and unique patterns.
distinctive	Appropriate when emphasizing a feature or quality that makes someone or something stand out from others in a noticeable way. The artist has a distinctive style that is easily recognizable. Her laughter has a distinctive sound that everyone loves.
characteristic	Used to describe a trait, feature, or quality that is typical of a person, thing, or group. It often pertains to something that helps identify or distinguish something or someone. One of the key characteristics of dolphins is their intelligence. Generosity is a characteristic of many great leaders.
unique	Best used when describing something that is one of a kind and has no equivalents. It emphasizes exclusiveness and rarity. Each snowflake is unique. He's a unique individual with a fascinating life story.

Examples of usage

His flamboyant signature style in fashion made him a trendsetter.
The restaurant's signature dish is the famous seafood paella.
Her signature scent always reminds me of her whenever I smell it.
The band's signature sound is a blend of rock and electronic music.
The artist's signature style is easily recognizable in all of his paintings.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The practice of using signatures dates back to ancient civilizations, where rulers would use unique marks to authenticate documents.
In medieval Europe, signatures started to become more common as a way for illiterate people to sign contracts and agreements.
Signatures played a crucial role in law and governance, ensuring the validity of documents and agreements.

Cultural Practices

In some cultures, a person's signature can be a symbol of their identity, reflecting personal style and cultural aesthetics.
Certain traditions involve using a seal or stamp instead of a written signature, especially in East Asian cultures.
Artistic signatures often evolve into a form of personal branding, particularly among artists and musicians.

Psychology

Researchers have found that the way we sign our names can reflect our personality traits, like confidence or creativity.
The act of writing a signature can evoke emotional responses and influence people's feelings about the document being signed.
Some studies suggest that signatures can change in style and structure depending on the emotional state of the signer.

Technology

With the rise of digital platforms, electronic signatures have emerged as a secure way of authenticating documents online.
Blockchain technology is being used to create tamper-proof digital signatures for enhanced security in transactions.
Apps and software now allow users to create customizable signatures that can be used across various documents.

Pop Culture

Signatures of celebrities often fetch high prices in auctions, turning them into collectibles for fans.
In movies and television, signing documents is often portrayed as a dramatic moment, emphasizing the seriousness of the agreement.
Songs about love or relationships sometimes reference the idea of 'signing' one's feelings, creating a poetic connection to commitment.

Translations

Translations of the word "signatures" in other languages:

🇵🇹 assinaturas

🇮🇳 हस्ताक्षर

🇩🇪 Unterschriften

🇮🇩 tanda tangan

🇺🇦 підписи

🇵🇱 podpisy

🇯🇵 署名

🇫🇷 signatures

🇪🇸 firmas

🇹🇷 imzalar

🇰🇷 서명

🇸🇦 توقيعات

🇨🇿 podpisy

🇸🇰 podpisy

🇨🇳 签名

🇸🇮 podpisi

🇮🇸 undirskriftir

🇰🇿 қолтаңбалар

🇬🇪 ხელმოწერები

🇦🇿 imzalar

🇲🇽 firmas

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,319 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8316 novelty
8317 exhaustion
8318 insult
8319 signatures
8320 discrepancy
8321 inactive
8322 forage
...