An endorsement is public support or approval of something, usually from someone whose opinion carries weight. When a famous athlete endorses a brand of shoes, they're telling everyone, “I use these and think they're great.” When a respected teacher endorses your idea for a school fundraiser, their approval helps convince others it's worth doing.

The word comes from an old practice of signing your name on the back of a document (the “dorse,” meaning back) to show you supported it. Today, endorsements happen in many ways. A movie critic's endorsement can make people want to see a film. A scientist's endorsement of a research project lends it credibility. Political candidates seek endorsements from community leaders because voters trust those leaders' judgment.

An endorsement involves actively recommending something and putting your reputation behind it. When someone endorses you for a position or opportunity, they're vouching for your abilities. That's why endorsements matter: they transfer trust from one person or thing to another. A positive endorsement from the right person can open doors, while endorsing something that turns out poorly can damage the endorser's credibility.