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Synonyms

certified

American  
[sur-tuh-fahyd] / ˈsɜr təˌfaɪd /

adjective

  1. having or proved by a certificate.

    a certified representative.

  2. guaranteed; reliably endorsed.

    a certified check.

  3. legally declared insane.

  4. committed to a mental institution.


certified British  
/ ˈsɜːtɪˌfaɪd /

adjective

  1. holding or guaranteed by a certificate

  2. endorsed or guaranteed

    a certified cheque

  3. (of a person) declared legally insane

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms


Etymology

Origin of certified

First recorded in 1605–15; certify + -ed 2


Explanation

If you've met a certain standard or proven that you're qualified for some specific job or task, you're certified. Most schools hire only certified teachers. In order for a person to become certified, there is usually some sort of test or review. A certified accountant has proven that she knows how to prepare tax forms and other financial records by taking classes and an exam. A certified diver has trained to use scuba gear and dive to a certain depth in the ocean, and demonstrated this ability. When you're certified in some way, you often receive a certificate, a document that proves it.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing certified

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

But California regulators certified a union representing Uber and Lyft drivers last month, marking a milestone in a years-long fight by gig workers in the state.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 13, 2026

The key to family harmony with either of these approaches is to maintain the person’s dignity as much as possible, said Kate Nattoli, a certified dementia practitioner with Crescent Grove Advisors.

From MarketWatch ● Oct. 6, 2026

Theirs is the first bison ranch in the state to be certified by Audubon as bird-friendly.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 2, 2026

Ozuna said that her daughter, the kindergarten teacher, holds a college degree and is working toward becoming a certified teacher but has struggled to get through a series of financial hoops.

From Salon ● Oct. 1, 2026

They were practical professionals, like nurses and teachers and certified med techs.

From "The House That Lou Built" by Mae Respicio

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