Definition

A detailed description of a person or animal, focusing on their unique features for identification purposes.

Example

The police used the signalment to help identify the suspect in the case.

Conversation

Have you ever had to give a signalment for someone you saw?

Not really, but I’ve heard it can be tricky.

Yeah, it’s all about describing unique features accurately.

Exactly, and those details can really help with identification.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Signalment → It is formed from "signum" (meaning sign) and "-ment" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating an action or resulting state). The word "signalment" refers to a description or identification of a person or thing, particularly in terms of distinguishing features.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'sign' ('signum') that helps identify someone or something, and the '-ment' indicates the state of that description. This helps you remember that 'signalment' is about identifying features.

Visually Confused Words