First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1certificate
noun cer·tif·i·cate \(ˌ)sər-ˈti-fi-kət\
: a document that is official proof that something has happened
: a document that is official proof that you have finished school or a course of training
: a document which shows that you own something
Full Definition of CERTIFICATE
1
: a document containing a certified statement especially as to the truth of something; specifically : a document certifying that one has fulfilled the requirements of and may practice in a field
2
: something serving the same end as a certificate
3
: a document evidencing ownership or debt <a stock certificate>
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Origin of CERTIFICATE
Middle English certificat, from Medieval Latin certificatum, from Late Latin, neuter of certificatus, past participle of certificare to certify
Related to CERTIFICATE
- Synonyms
- certification, document, instrument
2certificate
verb cer·tif·i·cate \-ˈti-fə-ˌkāt\
cer·tif·i·cat·edcer·tif·i·cat·ing
Definition of CERTIFICATE
transitive verb
: to testify to or authorize by a certificate; especially : certify 4
— cer·tif·i·ca·to·ry \-ˈti-fi-kə-ˌtȯr-ē\ adjective
First Known Use of CERTIFICATE
1818
Other Business Terms
Rhymes with CERTIFICATE
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CERTIFICATE Defined for Kids
certificate
noun cer·tif·i·cate \sər-ˈti-fi-kət\
Definition of CERTIFICATE for Kids
1
: a written or printed statement that is proof of some fact
2
: a paper showing that a person has met certain requirements
3
: a paper showing ownership
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