signature
UK[ˈsɪɡnətʃə]US[ˈsɪɡnətʃər]
n
a person's name written in a distinctive way as a form of identification or authorization.
n
a distinctive pattern, product, or characteristic by which someone or something can be identified.
Morpheme Breakdown
sign
ature
sign
to mark
ature
noun suffix denoting action or result
Etymology
the word signature traces its lineage to the latin verb 'signare', meaning "to mark" or "to seal," which itself derives from the noun 'signum' (a mark, sign). the suffix '-atura' was added to form a noun denoting the action or result of marking. entering english via old french 'signature', the term originally referred specifically to the act of signing one's name. over time, it evolved to denote the distinctive mark itself, and later broadened metaphorically to mean any characteristic or feature that serves to identify something uniquely, much like a personal mark.
Analysis
Structure: sign (to mark) + ature (noun suffix denoting action or result)
sign originates from latin 'signum', meaning a mark, token, or indication. ature is a noun-forming suffix from latin '-atura', indicating an action, process, or result.
Examples
please put your signature at the bottom of the contract.
the chef added his signature touch to the dish with a unique spice blend.
the artist's bold use of color became her signature style.