signed

The word “signed” means bearing a signature; formally agreed to or authenticated. In plain terms, having had a signature added, or (for a route) having signposts along it.

“Signed” is pronounced synd (/saɪnd/ in IPA).

Here is “signed” used in a sentence: “They finally received the signed copy of the lease.”

The opposite of “signed” — its antonyms — is unsigned.

“Signed” is an adjective.

“Signed” is a very common word in modern English.

“Signed” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: bearing a signature; formally agreed to or authenticated.

Signed means a document or item bears a signature, showing it has been formally agreed to or authenticated. Unsigned means no signature is present, so the agreement or authenticity is not yet confirmed. A signed contract is binding; an unsigned one is usually still a draft or proposal.

A signed document carries the handwritten or electronic signature of the person agreeing to it. The signature shows they have read, accepted, and formally committed to its contents. Signing often makes a document legally binding, which is why contracts, cheques, and official forms all require a signature to take effect.

In most cases, yes. A signature shows that each party has agreed to the terms, which is usually what makes a contract enforceable. Some agreements also need witnesses, dates, or specific wording to be fully valid. Even so, signing is the key step that turns a proposal into a binding commitment.

A signed item is worth more when the signature is genuine, clearly linked to a notable person, and supported by proof of authenticity. Condition, rarity, and demand also matter. A certificate of authenticity or trusted provenance reassures buyers that the signature is real rather than copied or forged.