Word
digital signature
Definition
compound. a secure electronic way to prove that a document or message is real and has not been changed. It works like a handwritten signature but uses computer code to keep things safe.
compound. a mathematical scheme for verifying the authenticity and integrity of a digital message or document. It provides a high level of assurance that the sender is who they claim to be and that the content has not been altered in transit.
Examples
“You need a digital signature to finalize the online contract.”
“The bank requires a digital signature on all electronic loan applications to prevent fraud and ensure the documents are legally binding.”
“By utilizing public-key cryptography, a digital signature ensures non-repudiation, meaning the signer cannot later deny having sent the message once the verification process is complete.”
Examples
simple
“You need a digital signature to finalize the online contract.”
contextual
“The bank requires a digital signature on all electronic loan applications to prevent fraud and ensure the documents are legally binding.”
complex
“By utilizing public-key cryptography, a digital signature ensures non-repudiation, meaning the signer cannot later deny having sent the message once the verification process is complete.”
Usage
Often used in the context of cybersecurity, legal contracts, and software distribution.
Pitfall
I scanned my handwritten signature as a digital signature
I used a digital signature to sign the PDF
A digital signature is an encrypted electronic code, not a scanned image of a physical signature (which is called an electronic signature).
Etymology
A compositional term formed from the adjective digital, derived from the Latin digitus, and the noun signature, from the Latin signare. The pairing follows the established linguistic pattern of applying physical authentication terminology to electronic data processing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/digital-signature