Notary

/ˈnoʊtəˌri/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A notary public, or notary, is a person authorized by law to perform certain legal formalities, especially to draw up or certify contracts, deeds, and other documents.
I need to have my documents signed by a notary to ensure they are legally valid.
An official person who serves as a witness to the signing of documents and verification of identities.
The notary confirmed my identity before witnessing the signing of the contract.
A person who makes a record of the execution of a will, deed, or other important legal instrument.
The notary kept a copy of the signed deed for record-keeping purposes.
A notary may also authenticate signatures and certify copies of documents.
She took the notarized letter to the bank as proof of her identity.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'notarius', meaning 'noter, scribe'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

notary public
A legally recognized individual who can perform notarial acts.
notarize a document
To officially certify a document by a notary.

Related Words

notarization
The process of certifying a document by a notary.
document
An official paper that provides information.

Slang Meanings

Doc signer
When you need a document signed, just take it to the doc signer.
Seal master
He’s the seal master when it comes to getting documents notarized quickly.