certitude

[ sur-ti-tood, -tyood ]

noun

1. freedom from doubt, especially in matters of faith or opinion; certainty.

   Synonyms: belief, conviction, assurance

certitude

/ ˈsɜːtɪˌtjuːd /

noun

1. confidence; certainty

Other Words From

• non·certi·tude noun
• un·certi·tude noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of certitude¹

1375–1425; late Middle English < Late Latin certitūdō, equivalent to Latin certi- (combining form of certus sure; certain ) + -tūdō -tude

Word History and Origins

Origin of certitude¹

C15: from Church Latin certitūdō, from Latin certus certain

Example Sentences

I think real historians look at the judiciary with shock to see that we think history has such certitude.

From Slate

A conductor known for his intense warmth in general and his rendition of Tchaikovsky’s Fifth in particular, Honeck brought the comfort of certitude to works composed in the shadow of doubt.

From New York Times

“Ever since I was seven, I’ve felt I must be formal,” he wrote, adding: “Formality, seriousness, certitude — all these are difficult poses to maintain, even if you’re a person with perfect equilibrium, with all the drama life throws at you.”

From Seattle Times

“It’s the person who has irrational certitude.”

From Los Angeles Times

Smith still gives the Seahawks the best chance to win, although the certitude of that statement isn’t permanent.

From Seattle Times