certain
UK: ˈsɜː.tən | US: ˈsɝː.tən
adj. definite, sure, or confident about something
adj. specific but not explicitly named or stated
adj. inevitable or bound to happen
The word "certain" traces back to Latin certus, which originally meant "decided" or "resolved" (from cernere, "to sift or judge"). Over time, certus evolved in Old French to certain, retaining the core idea of sureness. The suffix -ain was added to form an adjective, solidifying its meaning as "fixed" or "undoubtable." The word’s journey reflects a shift from active judgment ("deciding") to passive certainty ("being sure").
She was certain of her decision after careful consideration.
A certain person left this package for you.
It’s certain that the sun will rise tomorrow.
He spoke with a certain confidence that impressed everyone.
There’s a certain charm to small-town life.