Signed

The term "signed" has multiple meanings across different contexts, primarily in mathematics, linguistics, and technology.

In mathematics and computer science, "signed" refers to numbers that include a sign indicator to denote their positivity or negativity. Signed numbers are used to represent a broader range of values than unsigned numbers, which are non-negative by default. For example, in decimal notation, a minus sign before a number indicates it is negative, while the absence of a sign usually indicates a positive number. In binary systems, signed numbers are often represented using methods such as two's complement, which allows for efficient arithmetic operations and negative number calculations.

In linguistics, "signed" pertains to sign language or communication methods that utilize visual-manual signals instead of spoken words. Sign languages, such as American Sign Language (ASL) or British Sign Language (BSL), are complete natural languages with their own grammar and syntax. They are used predominantly by deaf communities and rely on hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey meaning.

In digital security, "signed" describes data, documents, or messages that have been cryptographically signed to verify authenticity and integrity. Digital signatures are used to confirm the source of a message and to ensure it has not been altered during transmission. This process involves a sender applying a private key to create a signature, which a recipient can verify using the sender's corresponding public key.

Overall, "signed" is a versatile term that plays a crucial role in various fields, including mathematics, linguistics, and cybersecurity, each emphasizing authenticity, clarity, or extended numerical representation.