English Reference
verb

verify

v.
US /ˈvɛɹəˌfaɪ/ UK /vˈɛɹɪfˌaɪ/ ver·i·fy UK spelling verifies, verifying

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    to check that something is true or correct by looking at evidence.

    to confirm or test the truth or accuracy of something through examination or comparison.

    Simple

    Please verify that your phone number is correct before you submit the form.

    In context

    The bank requested additional documentation to verify the applicant's identity and source of income before approving the mortgage.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Academic Science

    to show that a statement or theory is definitely true.

    to substantiate or prove the truth of a claim or hypothesis using empirical evidence.

    Simple

    Other scientists were able to verify the results of the experiment.

    In context

    Independent researchers conducted a follow-up study to verify the initial findings, ensuring the data was not skewed by external variables.

    refutedebunk
  3. 03 C1 Advanced FormalTechnical Law

    to state officially that something is true, often in a legal situation.

    to affirm something formally or under oath in a legal context.

    Simple

    The witness was asked to verify her statement in court.

    In context

    The petitioner was required to verify the allegations in the complaint by signing an affidavit under penalty of perjury.

However, monitors were unable to independently verify these numbers due to lack of access and limited information.

UN News· 13 Aug 2026

BBC Verify has not been able to independently confirm this.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

From Old French verifier (French: vérifier), from Medieval Latin vērificāre (“make true”), from Latin vērus (“true”) + faciō (“do, make”); see -fy.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin vērus
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated