signet

[ sig-nit ]

noun

1. a small seal, as on a finger ring.
2. a small official seal for legal documents, contracts, etc.
3. an impression made by or as if by a signet.

verb (used with object)

1. to stamp or mark with a signet.

signet

/ ˈsɪɡnɪt /

noun

1. a small seal, esp one as part of a finger ring
2. a seal used to stamp or authenticate documents
3. the impression made by such a seal

verb

1. tr to stamp or authenticate with a signet

Other Words From

• un·signet·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of signet¹

1300–50; Middle English < Old French ( sign, -et ); compare Medieval Latin signētum

Word History and Origins

Origin of signet¹

C14: from Medieval Latin signētum a little seal, from Latin signum a sign

Example Sentences

Evident today was a new signet ring that Carole has recently taken to wearing on the little finger of her right hand.

From The Daily Beast

He wears a real pearl stud and a good signet ring; also a gold wrist watch, face broken and hands stopped at seven-fifteen.

From Project Gutenberg

In the end, therefore, it was he who took the signet ring and the letter the prince had written and brought back the gold.

From Project Gutenberg

But for the dark circles about the eyes and mouth, the unmistakeable signet of Death, he might have seemed in perfect health.

From Project Gutenberg

And that figure upon the shields is the sacred sign that was engraved upon his signet-ring.

From Project Gutenberg

Of all the large Algerian cities, Constantina is that which has best preserved its primitive signet.

From Project Gutenberg