authenticate Meaning, Definition & Usage

Au*then"ti*cate transitive verb

Etymology

Cf. LL. authenticare.

Wordforms

imperfect & past participle Authenticated ; present participle & verbal noun Authenticating ()

Definitions

1. To render authentic; to give authority to, by the proof, attestation, or formalities required by law, or sufficient to entitle to credit.

   The king serves only as a notary to authenticate the choice of judges. Burke.

2. To prove authentic; to determine as real and true; as, to authenticate a portrait. Walpole.