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

The good news is that awareness is the first step toward managing certainty and defusing this landmine. — Susan MacKenty Brady, Fortune, 14 July 2026

With guest demand still strong, the restaurant is hoping to give diners a little bit of certainty to their meals. — Dan Raby, CBS News, 13 July 2026

Both experts acknowledged that the tests are not infallible, can’t determine exactly when DNA was left on an item, and can't confirm the source of DNA with absolute certainty. — N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 10 July 2026

From a passenger perspective, few experiences are more frustrating than waiting in an airport with little certainty over when your flight departs. — Christiaan Hen, Forbes.com, 10 July 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