signalment

[ sig-nl-muhnt ]

noun

1. a detailed description, especially of distinctive features, of a person for identification, usually for police purposes.

signalment

/ ˈsɪɡnəlmənt /

noun

1. a detailed description of a person, for identification or use in police records

Word History and Origins

Origin of signalment¹

1770–80; < French signalement, derivative of signaler to signalize. See signal, -ment

Word History and Origins

Origin of signalment¹

from French signalement, from signaler to distinguish

Example Sentences

His passport had only been issued at the British Legation in Stockholm, and his description tallied exactly with the signalment issued by Scotland Yard in eight languages.

From Project Gutenberg