JOHN HANCOCK Meaning and
Definition
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John Hancock, often referred to as "John Hancock's signature," is a popular idiom that originated from the American Founding Fathers. Primarily used in North America, the term "John Hancock" has become synonymous with a person's signature. It is derived from the actual signature of John Hancock, a prominent figure in the American Revolution who was well-known for his large and stylish handwriting.
The idiom "John Hancock" is often used to emphasize the act of signing one's name on a document or legal agreement. It signifies the signatory's personal endorsement, ownership, or accountability for the content of the document. This phrase has penetrated everyday language and is commonly used in various contexts, including official paperwork, contracts, applications, and even informal agreements.
Due to John Hancock's prominent status in American history, his name carries an air of importance and authority regarding affixing one's signature. When a person is asked to put their "John Hancock" on a document, it implies a formal commitment and acknowledgment of the document's contents. Furthermore, using this phrase highlights the recognition and respect towards the significance of one's signature.
Overall, "John Hancock" has become a widely recognized idiom that reinforces the idea of personal endorsement and accountability through the act of signing one's name, carrying descriptions of authority, importance, and recognition within the popular lexicon.
Common Misspellings for JOHN HANCOCK
- hohn hancock
- nohn hancock
- mohn hancock
- kohn hancock
- iohn hancock
- uohn hancock
- jihn hancock
- jkhn hancock
- jlhn hancock
- jphn hancock
- j0hn hancock
- j9hn hancock
- jogn hancock
- jobn hancock
- jonn hancock
- jojn hancock
- joun hancock
- joyn hancock
- johb hancock
- johm hancock
Etymology of JOHN HANCOCK
The term "John Hancock" is derived from the name of John Hancock, a prominent figure in American history. However, it is important to note that the phrase "put your John Hancock" or "put your John Henry" is used as a colloquialism to refer to a person's signature.
John Hancock was a statesman and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States who served as the president of the Second Continental Congress, where the Declaration of Independence was adopted. He is famous for having one of the largest and most distinctive signatures on the Declaration. Due to its prominent size and placement, his signature became synonymous with a person's signature in general.
The use of "John Hancock" to refer to a signature came about as a popular way to honor and remember John Hancock's role in signing the Declaration of Independence. Over time, it has become a widely recognized term for a person's signature, often used in informal contexts.
Idioms with the word JOHN HANCOCK
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put (one's) John Hancock on
The idiom "put (one's) John Hancock on" means to sign or autograph something, typically in reference to one's own handwritten signature. It is derived from the American Founding Father, John Hancock, whose large and prominent signature is famously displayed on the United States' Declaration of Independence.
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your John Hancock
The idiom "your John Hancock" refers to someone's signature. It is derived from the name of John Hancock, an American statesman and one of the Founding Fathers, whose distinctive and prominent signature on the Declaration of Independence has become synonymous with a person's personal signature. Therefore, "your John Hancock" is used to request someone's signature or emphasize the importance and authenticity of one's signature.
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John Hancock
A signature, especially a large, bold, or distinctive one.
