Dictionary.net

the act of certifying or bestowing a franchise on

Compliance with a set of standards defined by non-governmental organizations. Certification is applied for by individuals on a voluntary basis and represents a professional status when achieved, e.g., certification for a medical specialty.

The act of testifying by means of a written statement; a written statement given as proof of facts, etc.

The reporting to the health authorities of the occurrence of an infectious disease.

n. The act of verifying;—a written declaration.