[n. of action f. AUTHENTICATE: see -ATION.]
1. The action or process of authenticating.
1788. T. Jefferson, Writ. (1859), II. 543. So numerous are the writings … that their authentication … would occupy the greater part of his time.
1847. C. Addison, Contracts, I. i. § 1 (1883), 19. The use of seals for the authentication of contracts and writings.
1868. M. Pattison, Academ. Org., § 5. 308. The interpretation and authentication of ancient documents.
2. The condition of being authenticated.
1860. Dickens, Uncomm. Trav., xv. Politeness … forbade my doubting them [ghost stories], and they acquired an air of authentication.
