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Definition of ascertain

ascertain

/ˌæs.ɚˈteɪn/
as · cer · tain
Adjective:ascertainable
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Past Simple:ascertained
•
Past Participle:ascertained
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Present Participle:ascertaining
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ascertain Lexical Profile

ascertain Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To find out or learn (something) with certainty through careful inquiry, examination, or investigation.

Example

"The researchers conducted several tests to ascertain the exact age of the ancient manuscript."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for ascertain

• Nearby Words

ascending
ascension
ascent
ascertain
ascertainable
asceticism
ascidian

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French acertener ('to make certain, assure'), formed from a- ('to') and certain, ultimately from Latin certus ('sure, settled'). Originally meaning 'to make someone certain of something,' its modern sense of 'to find out for certain' developed in the 18th century.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ascertain. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ascertain
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