Emily Dickinson Lexicon
Definition for COUN'TER-SIGN
COUN'TER-SIGN, v.t. [counter and sign.]
Literally, to sign on the opposite side of an instrument or writing; hence, to sign, as secretary or other subordinate officer, a writing signed by a principal or superior, to attest the authenticity of the writing. Thus charters signed by a king are countersigned by a secretary. Bank notes signed by the president are countersigned by the cashier.
Return to page 270 of the letter “C”.