ˈsə:tn adj. & pron. --adj. 1 a (often foll. by
of, or
that + clause)
confident, convinced (certain that I put it here). b (often foll. by that + clause)
indisputable;
known for sure (it is certain that he is guilty). 2 (often foll. by to + infin.) a that
may be relied on to
happen (it is certain to rain). b destined (certain to
become a star). 3
definite,
unfailing,
reliable (a certain
indication of
the coming storm;
his touch is certain). 4 (of a
person,
place, etc.) that might be specified, but is
not (a certain
lady; of a certain age). 5
some though not
much (a certain reluctance). 6 (of a person, place, etc.) existing, though probably
unknown to the
reader or hearer (a certain
John Smith). --pron. (as pl.) some but not
all (certain of
them were wounded). øfor certain
without doubt.
make certain = make sure (see SURE). [ME f. OF ult. f. L certus settled]