What does "signed" mean?

1. (having a signature) describes a document that has a signature on it. 2. (positive or negative) in math, a number that can be either positive or negative. 3. (using sign language) expressed using hand signals instead of spoken words.

signed

adj.

US //ˈsaɪnd// UK //sˈaɪnd// signed

1 having a signature (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

describes a document that has a signature on it.

bearing a signature; officially endorsed or authenticated by a person's handwritten name.

Example

Please return the signed copy of the lease to the office.

Example

The archive contains several signed first editions, each featuring a personal dedication from the author to his contemporary peers.
- endorsed
- validated
- unsigned
2 positive or negative (adj.)
C1 Advanced Technical Math

in math, a number that can be either positive or negative.

capable of having either a positive or negative value, typically indicated by a plus or minus symbol.

Example

A signed integer can represent both positive and negative whole numbers.

Example

The programmer opted for a signed 32-bit integer to ensure the variable could account for negative temperature readings in the simulation.
- unsigned
3 using sign language (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

expressed using hand signals instead of spoken words.

communicated or performed through the medium of sign language.

Example

The signed performance allowed the deaf audience members to enjoy the play.

Example

The news broadcast included a signed interpretation in the corner of the screen to ensure accessibility for the hearing-impaired community.
- spoken

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Last updated June 19, 2026