notary public

noun

, plural notaries public.

1. a public officer or other person authorized to authenticate contracts, acknowledge deeds, take affidavits, protest bills of exchange, take depositions, etc.

notary public

noun

1. a public official, usually a solicitor, who is legally authorized to administer oaths, attest and certify certain documents, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of notary public¹

First recorded in 1490–1500

Example Sentences

In his deposition, Cozart said he summoned a notary public who witnessed Wang, Turbett and Lankford sign the deal, including a handwritten copy Turbett had drafted at the kitchen table.

From Los Angeles Times

The signatures of Ms. Presley and of a notary public on some of the documents had been forged, lawyers for Ms. Keough said.

From New York Times

They have also presented an affidavit from a notary public who has denied signing key documents the company has held up as evidence that they are entitled to sell the home.

From New York Times

A notary public is often required to finalize many legal documents and official applications.

From Encyclopedia.com

Most people take the services of a notary public for granted until they need those services.

From Encyclopedia.com