dotted line

American  

noun

1. a line on a contract or similar document for a party's signature.

2. a line at which a sheet of paper is perforated or a piece of it is to be detached.

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idioms

1. sign on the dotted line, to agree fully to terms or conditions.

2. signature on the dotted line, full agreement to terms and conditions.

dotted line British  

noun

1. a line of dots or dashes on a form or document

2. to agree formally, esp by signing one's name on a document

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Etymology

Origin of dotted line

First recorded in 1770–75

Example Sentences

Others reading your story should know whether their financial adviser is a fiduciary or whether they’re receiving commissions before they sign on the dotted line.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 5, 2026

Discovery WBD -2.39%decrease; red down pointing triangle sent a message to Larry Ellison: If you want to buy our company, sign on the dotted line yourself.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 18, 2025

If 10% of voters sign on the dotted line, then a by-election is triggered.

From BBC • Mar. 1, 2025

That means, people walk into recruiting offices and sign on the dotted line to potentially serve in combat, risking their lives in the service of the country.

From Salon • Nov. 12, 2024

The city block’s number—16—hovers in bright yellow letters over the pavement, while a gold dotted line leads from where I stand to the corner of the block, where it turns right and disappears from view.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu