Definition of "credence" []

• Acceptance as true or valid; belief. See Synonyms at belief. (noun)
• Claim to acceptance; trustworthiness. (noun)
• Recommendation; credentials: a letter of credence. (noun)
• A small table or shelf for holding the bread, wine, and vessels of the Eucharist when they are not in use at the altar. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Finally, CNN gives a positive view about Governor Palin credence in a Political Ticker story!"
• "Why the Republicans continue to give her credence is beyond me."
• "Consequently, lies about climate change gain credence even when they fly in the face of the science that supposedly is their basis."