certified
Americanadjective
-
having or proved by a certificate.
a certified representative.
-
guaranteed; reliably endorsed.
a certified check.
-
legally declared insane.
-
committed to a mental institution.
adjective
-
holding or guaranteed by a certificate
-
endorsed or guaranteed
a certified cheque
-
(of a person) declared legally insane
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of certified
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.
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.
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
![]()
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.