Law (a) To confirm or approve (a charter, bill, agreement, etc.), [orig. by writing on the back of the document];--also fig.; (b) to approve a reply to (a petition), to grant (a petition) under seal or signature; (c) to assign or grant (a warrant) under the Privy Seal; (d) to indorse or sign (a document), ?to address (a letter).

To protect or defend [?orig., give backing or support].

To punish [orig., to beat someone's back, to flog].