v.tr. 1 provide support for the truth or correctness of; make definitely valid (confirmed my suspicions; confirmed his arrival time). 2 (foll. by in) encourage (a person) in (an opinion etc.). 3 establish more firmly (power, possession, etc.). 4 ratify (a treaty, possession, title, etc.); make formally valid. 5 administer the religious rite of confirmation to. confirmative adj. confirmatory adj.
[ ME f. OF confermer f. L confirmare (as com-, firm(1)) ]