endorse

Endorse is a verb with several related meanings. It commonly means to publicly declare support or approval for a person, policy, product, or idea. It can also mean to sign the back of a negotiable instrument, such as a check or promissory note, in order to authorize payment or transfer of rights. The noun form endorsement refers to the act of endorsing or to the signature itself.

In finance and law, endorsements appear on negotiable instruments. A blank endorsement consists only of a signature, making the instrument payable to the bearer. A special endorsement names a specific endorsee. A qualified endorsement limits the endorser’s liability. Endorsements may be restrictive, specifying conditions under which payment is made, and they can transfer or assign ownership depending on the language used.

Endorsements also play a significant role in public life and commerce. Political endorsements are formal expressions of support by individuals or organizations for a candidate or policy. In advertising, endorsements by celebrities, experts, or influencers are used to convey credibility, and paid endorsements are subject to regulatory disclosure requirements to prevent deceptive practices. In all contexts, the credibility of an endorsement depends on perceived authenticity, potential conflicts of interest, and the relationship between the endorser and the endorsed party.

Etymology and usage trace the term to acts of validation and transfer of rights, with historical roots in the practice of writing on the back of documents. The word has evolved from specialized legal use to broader, everyday meanings of support and authorization.