Mark

1, n. (1) A sign made on paper, instead of a signature. Consists of two lines traced across each other between the Christian name and the surname, with " His " written above, and "mark" below, the crossed lines. Marksman. One who signs by means of a mark. The method of the Saxons was for such as could not write to subscribe their names to a deed, and, whether they could write or not, to affix the sign of the cross; which custom our illiterate vulgar to this day keep up by signing a cross for their mark, when unable to write their names.* Binds an intelligent maker as to parties accepting the document on the faith of the mark. If the maker is able to write, a mark for his name is presumed ac- > The City of Norwich, 118 U. S. 496 ( "The Draco, 2 Sum. 184 (1885): Valin. ' [Cope V. Valette Dry-Dock Co., 4 Woods, 267 (1883), Woods, J. ■" See The Plymouth, 3 Wall. 33 (1865), Nelson, J. Approved, Exp. Phenix Fire Ins. Co^, 118 U. S. 018 (1886). See also The Arkansas, 17 F. R. 387-88 (1883). cidental, or as an incomplete signature. A mark made by an attesting witness is verified as is the mark of a party.! gge Cancel. (2) A label, token, or impression; a sign, badge, index: as, post-mark, trade-mark,^ qq.v. Ear-mark. A mark placed upon a thing by which to identify it. Land-mark. A monument indicating the boundaries of land. See Mark, 2 (3). 2, V. (1) To point out, settle, define, describe — with or without visible boundaries: as, to mark and lay out the bounds and rules of a prison.' (2) To determine by marks on the ground: as, to mark a boundary line.* (3) To note or enter upon a record: as, to mark for use — indicate upon the record of a suit or judgment for whose benefit the same is maintained or exists. Marked ballot. A ballot so prepared as to indicate to by-standers the nominee for whom it is to be cast. See Ballot.

n. 1. Persons unable to write their names are allowed to subscribe written instruments by making their mark, commonly done by the subscriber making two lines across each other, on the paper, deemed to represent the sign of the cross, to which his name is affixed by some other person. is the foundation of the term trademark, q. V.