ascertain
to find out definitely; learn with certainty or assurance; determine: to ascertain the facts.
Archaic. to make certain, clear, or definitely known.
Origin of ascertain
1Other words from ascertain
- as·cer·tain·a·ble, adjective
- as·cer·tain·a·bly, adverb
- as·cer·tain·er, noun
- as·cer·tain·ment, noun
- non·as·cer·tain·a·ble, adjective
- non·as·cer·tain·a·ble·ness, noun
- non·as·cer·tain·a·bly, adverb
- non·as·cer·tain·ment, noun
- pre·as·cer·tain, verb (used with object)
- pre·as·cer·tain·ment, noun
- un·as·cer·tain·a·ble, adjective
- un·as·cer·tain·a·bly, adverb
- un·as·cer·tained, adjective
- well-as·cer·tained, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use ascertain in a sentence
The chairman regulates the proceedings of the Board, and ascertains its resolutions.
The number of threads visible in this perforation, ascertains the number of threads in the standard measure of the reed.
A Dictionary of Arts, Manufactures and Mines | Andrew UreHe turns the trumpet of his sound-detector in the direction of the pursuing vessel, and from its dial ascertains her course.
Harper's Round Table, September 3, 1895 | VariousBut, then, as one ascertains increasingly with every year one lives, Life is filled with curious and often uncomfortable feelings.
Missy | Dana GatlinIn some mysterious way she ascertains what she wants, and having acquired that, draws men in thousands round her properties.
North America, Volume II (of 2) | Anthony Trollope
British Dictionary definitions for ascertain
/ (ˌæsəˈteɪn) /
to determine or discover definitely
archaic to make certain
Origin of ascertain
1Derived forms of ascertain
- ascertainable, adjective
- ascertainably, adverb
- ascertainment, noun
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
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