Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Not bearing a signature: Describes a document, check, artwork, or other item that has not been signed by its author, creator, or responsible party.
   • (Computing) Pertaining to a data type or integer that can only represent non-negative numbers: In computing, an "unsigned" integer or variable is one that can only hold positive values and zero.

Usage Examples

• General Use (Lacking a Signature):

  • The contract was returned unsigned because of a disagreement over terms.
  • An unsigned letter arrived at the office, causing some concern.
  • The painting remained valuable even though it was unsigned.

• Computing Context:

  • The variable was declared as an unsigned integer to ensure it could only store positive values.
  • Using an unsigned data type prevents the program from accepting negative input in this field.

Advanced Usage

• "unsigned artist/band/musician": Refers to a musical performer or group that is not under contract with a record label.

  • The festival provides a platform for unsigned artists to showcase their talent.

• "unsigned binary": In computing, a binary number representation that does not use a bit to indicate a positive or negative sign, meaning all bits are used for magnitude.

  • The system uses unsigned binary arithmetic for that calculation.

Variants and Related Words

• Sign (verb): To write one's name on a document to authorize or validate it.
• Signature (noun): A person's name written in a distinctive way as a form of identification or authorization.
• Unsignedness (noun, technical): The property of being unsigned (primarily used in computing contexts).

Synonyms

• Unendorsed: Not signed to show approval.
• Unattested: Not signed as evidence or proof.
• Anonymous: Of unknown name or authorship (can imply being unsigned, but focuses more on the unknown origin).

Antonyms

• Signed: Bearing a signature.
• Endorsed: Signed to show approval or support.
• Autographed: Signed by the author, often as a keepsake.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• "Leave unsigned": To deliberately not sign something.
  • He chose to leave the petition unsigned.
• "Go unsigned": To remain without a signature or, in sports/entertainment, to not secure a formal contract.
  • The talented rookie went unsigned for the entire season.
  • Many demos from unsigned bands are posted online.

Adjective

1. lacking a signature
   • the message was typewritten and unsigned