sign off

sign off 

1. Lit. [for a broadcaster] to announce the end of programming for the day; [for an amateur radio operator] to announce the end of a transmission. Wally signed off and turned the transmitter off. Channel 43 failed to sign off at the scheduled time last night.

2. Fig. to quit doing what one has been doing and leave, go to bed, quit trying to do something, etc. I have to sign off and get to bed. See you all. When you finally sign off tonight, please turn out all the lights.

See also: sign

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sign off

to end a television or radio broadcast Both news programs came on the air at 4:36 p.m. and both signed off at 4:59 p.m. What will the network air on Tuesdays now that one of its most popular programs is signing off?

See also: sign

sign off (on something)

to officially agree to or support something Mary has to sign off on any expenses over $2,500. A judge must sign off on a search of anyone's property. If all parties sign off, the settlement would end eight years of court battles.

Usage notes: often used when someone agrees to something by putting their signature on an official document

See also: sign