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

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

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 19 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!