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verify

v.
US //ˈvɛɹəˌfaɪ// UK //vˈɛɹɪfˌaɪ// ver·i·fy
  1. 1 to check accuracy (v.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

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

  2. 2 to prove true (v.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

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

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  1. 3 to affirm formally (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

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

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

    Example

    The witness was asked to verify her statement in court.

    Example

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

Origin

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

Word family

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