certainty

noun

cer·​tain·​ty ˈsər-tᵊn-tē 

plural certainties

1

: something that is certain

2

: the quality or state of being certain especially on the basis of evidence

Synonyms of certainty

• assurance
• confidence
• satisfaction
• conviction

Choose the Right Synonym for certainty

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

Examples of certainty in a Sentence

Scientists still do not know with any degree of certainty why the disease spread so quickly.

We cannot predict the outcome with absolute certainty.

There was no certainty that the package would arrive in time.

Her certainty about these complex moral issues is surprising.

Recent Examples on the Web

Fudd’s selection came with less certainty than some recent drafts. —Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 13 Apr. 2026

All of this is to amp up our sympathy for these men and our certainty that Carol killed Floyd, until the season finale finally sketches her out, albeit thinly. —Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 13 Apr. 2026

The problem is, Porzingis being available is never a certainty. —Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 13 Apr. 2026

The Florida Panthers’ draft lottery situation has become clearer with two games left in the regular season, with Florida retaining its first-round pick for the 2026 draft looking more like a certainty regardless of what happens in the lottery. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 12 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English certeinte, borrowed from Anglo-French certeinté, from certein, certain certain entry 1 + -té -ty

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing certainty

• almost a certainty
• with certainty

Rhymes for certainty

• uncertainty

Kids Definition

certainty

noun

cer·​tain·​ty ˈsərt-ᵊn-tē 

plural certainties

1

: something certain

2

: the quality or state of being or feeling certain