sign manual

noun

plural signs manual
1
a
: signature
specifically : the king's signature on a royal grant or charter placed at the top of the document
b
: an identifying mark or device
2
: a hand gesture for conveying a command or message

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of sign manual was in the 15th century

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Dictionary Entries Near sign manual

Cite this Entry

“Sign manual.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sign%20manual. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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