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Showing results for "certified"
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.

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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:

So before you start, speak to a certified exercise physiologist or physiotherapist.

From Science Daily Aug. 16, 2026

Uber and Lyft drivers in California are a step closer to unionizing after state regulators confirmed the budding union had gained enough support to be certified.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 15, 2026

Consult with a certified financial planner and a tax accountant.

From MarketWatch Aug. 14, 2026

The safest way is to use certified solar glasses or create a pinhole viewer.

From BBC Aug. 11, 2026

“They’re going to ask a judge to decide if Dad’s a certified wacko.”

From "Flush" by Carl Hiaasen

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