n.
Pronunciation: ' s ə r-t ə n-t ē
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural -ties
Date: 14th century
1 : something that is certain
2 : the quality or state of being certain especially on the basis of evidence
synonyms CERTAINTY , CERTITUDE , CONVICTION mean a state of being free from doubt. CERTAINTY and CERTITUDE are very close; CERTAINTY may stress the existence of objective proof <claims that cannot be confirmed with scientific certainty >, while CERTITUDE may emphasize a faith in something not needing or not capable of proof <believes with certitude in an afterlife>. CONVICTION applies especially to belief strongly held by an individual <holds firm convictions on every issue>.