John Hancock

Definition

A person's signature.

Etymology

Named after American merchant and statesman John Hancock (1737–1793), the first person to sign the United States Declaration of Independence. According to legend, he signed his name prominently to be sure George III could read it, causing his name to become an eponym for a signature. However, other examples show that Hancock always wrote his signature this way.

Example Sentences

• "Please put your John Hancock on the dotted line to close the deal."
• "The man is pressed for his "John Hancock" with all the persuasiveness and eloquence of a practiced operator on masculine vanity."
• "Can I have your auto—your John Hancock, please?"