Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition

Countersign

Counˊter-sign′

(-s?nˊ; 277)
,
Verb.
T.
[
imp. & p. p.
Countersigned
(-s?ndˊ)
;
p. pr. & vb. n.
Countersigning
.]
[
Counter-
+
sign
: cf. F.
contresigner
.]
To sign on the opposite side of (an instrument or writing); hence, to sign in addition to the signature of a principal or superior, in order to attest the authenticity of a writing.

Coun′ter-signˊ

,
Adj.
1.
The signature of a secretary or other officer to a writing signed by a principal or superior, to attest its authenticity.
2.
(Mil.)
A private signal, word, or phrase, which must be given in order to pass a sentry; a watchword.

Webster 1828 Edition

Countersign

COUNTERSIGN

,
Verb.
T.
[counter and sign.] Literally, to sign on the opposite side of an instrument or writing; hence, to sign, as secretary or other subordinate officer, a writing signed by a principal or superior, to attest the authenticity of the writing. Thus charters signed by a king are countersigned by a secretary. Bank notes signed by the president are countersigned by the cashier.

COUNTERSIGN

,
Noun.
A private signal, word or phrase, given to soldiers on guard, with orders to let no man pass unless he first names that sign; a military watchword. Advance and give the countersign.

Similar Results