Credential Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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credential
[krɪˈdɛnʃ(ə)l ]
Definitions
academic achievement
A qualification or achievement that proves a person's ability in a particular field.
Synonyms
certification, diploma, qualification.
Examples of usage
- He needed to provide his credentials before being considered for the job.
- She presented her credentials to the university admissions office.
- His credentials as a scientist were impeccable.
documents proving identity
Documents proving a person's identity or qualifications.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Please bring your credentials with you to the interview.
- The candidate submitted his credentials for verification.
- She carries her credentials with her at all times.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- In education, credentials often include degrees, diplomas, or certifications that show a person is trained.
- Many jobs require specific credentials, ensuring that employees are knowledgeable and skilled.
Technology
- In online security, credentials refer to a username and password combo, verifying a user's identity.
- Digital certificates serve as credentials in internet security, indicating that a website is safe to visit.
Job Market
- Employers often look for both educational and professional credentials when hiring to ensure candidates are qualified.
- Certain professions, like medicine or law, demand specific credentials to practice legally.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures may have various views on what constitutes valuable credentials, affecting hiring practices globally.
- In some regions, informal experiences and skills can hold as much weight as formal credentials.
Origin of 'credential'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'credentia,' which means 'belief or trust.'
- It evolved in Middle English to describe documents that could give someone authority or trustworthiness.
The word 'credential' originated in the early 16th century from the medieval Latin 'credentialis', which means 'giving credence'. The concept of credentials has been important throughout history, especially in the academic and professional world, to demonstrate one's qualifications and achievements.
See also: accredit, creditability, creditable, creditor, credits, creditworthy, discredit, discreditable, uncredited.