Legal Definitions - endorse (indorse)

The term "endorse" has two primary meanings in a legal and general context:

• 1. To formally sign or transfer a financial instrument:

  This refers to the act of signing one's name, often on the back of a document like a check or a promissory note, to transfer ownership, rights, or to make it valid for another party to cash or use. It legally transfers the benefit or obligation of the instrument.

  • Example 1 (Check Transfer):

    Mr. Davies receives a tax refund check made out to him. Instead of depositing it into his own account, he wants to give it to his son, Mark, to help with college tuition. Mr. Davies signs his name on the back of the check and writes "Pay to the order of Mark Davies."

    Explanation: By signing and adding the instruction, Mr. Davies endorses the check, legally transferring his right to the funds to his son, Mark, who can now deposit or cash it.

  • Example 2 (Promissory Note Sale):

    A small business takes out a loan from "First National Bank," signing a promissory note. A year later, First National Bank decides to sell a portfolio of its outstanding loans, including this one, to "Capital Lending Corp."

    Explanation: To legally transfer the right to collect payments on the loan from First National Bank to Capital Lending Corp., a representative of First National Bank will endorse the promissory note, formally assigning the debt to the new lender.

• 2. To publicly declare support or approval for something or someone:

  This meaning involves giving official or public backing to a person, product, policy, or idea, often with the intention of influencing others to support it as well.

  • Example 1 (Political Candidate):

    A prominent environmental advocacy group issues a press release announcing its full support for Councilwoman Elena Garcia's re-election campaign, citing her strong record on conservation initiatives.

    Explanation: The environmental group's public statement of support officially endorses Councilwoman Garcia, signaling to its members and the broader public that they believe she is the best candidate for environmental protection.

  • Example 2 (Product Recommendation):

    A well-known professional athlete appears in a series of advertisements, speaking enthusiastically about a particular brand of sports drink and attributing their peak performance to its benefits.

    Explanation: The athlete's public recommendation and testimonial endorse the sports drink, suggesting to consumers that it is effective and worthy of purchase due to the athlete's association with it.