What does signatory mean?
A signatory is a person, organization, or state that signs a document or formally agrees to an arrangement. The word is especially common in legal and diplomatic language, where it identifies a party bound by a contract, treaty, memorandum, petition, or declaration. “Signatory to” is the usual construction, as in “the signatory to the agreement,” although “signatory of” also occurs. In some contexts, signatory simply means a person who has put a signature to a document, but it often carries the stronger implication of formal participation or endorsement. It differs from “signer” mainly in being more formal and more likely to suggest an official capacity. The related word “signature” names the written name or mark itself rather than the person who supplies it.
nounA person who signs a document, agreement, treaty, or other formal statement, especially as an official party to it.
- A person who signs a formal document or is a party to an agreement, treaty, or contract.
- A government, organization, or other entity that has formally signed an agreement or treaty.
"The signatories to the agreement pledged to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions."
"Each signatory received a copy of the final agreement."
"The negotiating parties were careful to include every signatory in the joint statement."
Used for one or more people, organizations, or states that have signed a document or formally joined an agreement.
"The original signatories were joined by four additional countries."
Behind every major treaty is a line of signatories: people whose signatures give a document legal and political force.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does signatory come from?
The word derives from Late Latin signatorius, an adjective meaning “of or relating to signing,” formed from signare, “to sign.” The Latin family includes words such as signature, signify, and consign, all connected with signs or the act of signing. Signatory entered English as a formal legal and diplomatic term and ultimately became established as a noun for a person who signs an agreement or treaty.
How signatory is actually used
Usually used in legal, diplomatic, or formal contexts. The usual patterns are “signatory to” and “signatory of”; “the signatories to the treaty” is particularly common.
Easily confused with signatory
A signatory is the person who signs a document, whereas a signature is the written name or mark that the person provides.