certainty
UK: /ˈsɜː.tən.ti/ | US: /ˈsɝː.tən.ti/
n. the state of being certain; complete confidence in something
n. something that is certain to happen or be true
certainty = certain<sure, fixed> + ty<noun suffix>
- certain: Derived from Latin certus (determined, fixed), from cernere (to decide, sift). The root implies clarity and decisiveness.
- ty: A noun-forming suffix from Latin -tas, indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word "certainty" evolved from the Latin certus, meaning "resolved" or "fixed," reflecting a shift from the act of deciding (cernere) to the state of being decided. The suffix -ty (via Old French -té) solidified its meaning as an abstract noun denoting an unshakable state of truth or inevitability. This progression mirrors the human desire to categorize knowledge as absolute.
There is no certainty that the project will succeed.
She spoke with absolute certainty about her findings.
The certainty of death is a universal truth.
His predictions lacked certainty, leaving room for doubt.
Legal contracts aim to provide certainty for both parties.