notarize

American  

[noh-tuh-rahyz] / ˈnoʊ təˌraɪz /

especially British, notarise

verb (used with object)

notarized, notarizing

1. to certify (a document, contract, etc.) or cause to become certified through a notary public.

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notarize British  

/ ˈnəʊtəˌraɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to attest to or authenticate (a document, contract, etc), as a notary

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Other Word Forms

• notarization
  noun
• renotarize
  verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of notarize

First recorded in 1925–30; notar(y) + -ize

Explanation

You usually have someone notarize your contract when you lease a car. In other words, she'll put a special, official stamp next to your signature and her own — certifying that you are in fact you. The verb notarize is most likely to come up in a lawyer's office or when you're signing a contract, a will, or some other legal document. A person certified to notarize documents is called a "notary public," and his job is to officially swear that he saw the contract or agreement get signed. The word "notary" was originally used to mean "secretary," but around the 14th century it took on the meaning of "person authorized to authenticate."

Example Sentences

Florida notary Kimberly L. Philbrick, whose signature appears on the alleged agreement between Lisa Marie Presley and Naussany Investments, claimed in an affidavit that she did not notarize the documents.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2024

I just needed the bank to notarize a mortgage document.

From Washington Post • May 20, 2022

I went to notarize the claim form at the bank, where they told me to go to the pharmacy, whose notary only accepted cash, sending me right back to the bank.

From New York Times • Oct. 27, 2021

In order to notarize a document, the notary has to see both parties sign.

From Encyclopedia.com • Mar. 21, 2018

To notarize the victory of his most despised rival?

From Slate • Jul. 22, 2016

Related Words

• authenticate