What does indorsed mean?
Indorsed is an alternative spelling of the familiar word “endorsed,” and it is chiefly encountered in formal or older usage. Its most common meaning is “approved, supported, or recommended,” especially by a person or organization with relevant authority: a candidate may be indorsed by a political party, or a product by a professional association. In a more specialized financial and legal sense, an indorsed document is one that carries a signature or other official notation, often on the back; this usage describes the action of transferring or confirming a negotiable instrument such as a check. Although “endorsed” is now the usual spelling in everyday English, “indorsed” is not incorrect in contexts where the older spelling remains conventional. For most speakers, the alternative spelling is likely to be noticed in official paperwork rather than in ordinary conversation.
adjectiveHaving received an endorsement or approval, especially from an authoritative person or organization. “Indorsed” is an alternative spelling of “endorsed,” found especially in legal, financial, and official contexts.
- Having received approval, recommendation, or support from an authoritative person or organization.
- Bearing an official signature or notation, especially on the back of a check or document.
"The newly indorsed candidate received strong support from party leaders."
"The proposal was indorsed by several leading engineers."
"The check was indorsed on the reverse side before being deposited."
A once-common spelling survived longest in formal documents, where “indorsed” can still appear on checks and legal paperwork.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indorsed come from?
The word comes from the verb “indorse,” historically a variant spelling of “endorse.” Both forms ultimately derive from Latin endorsare, formed from endorse, “to write on the back” or “put a name on the back,” from the prefix in- and dorsum, meaning “back.” The meaning developed from signing or transferring a document to one of expressing approval or recommendation.
Related word forms
How indorsed is actually used
The spelling “indorsed” is uncommon in general contemporary English, which normally uses “endorsed.” It remains especially relevant in legal, banking, and documentary contexts. In the check-related sense, “indorsed” specifically refers to the writing or signature on the reverse of a negotiable instrument.
Easily confused with indorsed
“Indorsed” is an alternative spelling of “endorsed”; in ordinary modern usage, “endorsed” is the more common form.
“Indorsed” may also refer to a check or other document bearing a signature on its back, whereas in its usual adjectival sense it means approved or recommended.