The action of writing one's name or making a mark to indicate agreement, authorization, or acknowledgment of a document or agreement. It can also refer to communicating using sign language.
From Latin 'signum' meaning 'mark' or 'sign,' through Old French 'signer.' The concept evolved from making any identifying mark to the specific practice of writing one's name as a form of authentication and legal commitment.
Before widespread literacy, people 'signed' documents with personal seals, crosses, or thumb prints—the signature as handwritten name is relatively recent. This evolution from symbols to script reflects the democratization of writing skills and personal identity authentication.
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