v.tr. (-ies, -ied) 1 make a formal statement of; attest; attest to (certified that he had witnessed the crime). 2 declare by certificate (that a person is qualified or competent) (certified as a trained bookkeeper). 3 officially declare insane (he should be certified). certified cheque a cheque the validity of which is guaranteed by a bank. certified mail US = recorded delivery (see RECORD). certified milk milk guaranteed free from the tuberculosis bacillus.
[ ME f. OF certifier f. med.L certificare f. L certus certain ]