accredited
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /əˈkrɛdɪtɪd/
KK: /əˈkrɛdɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Officially recognized as meeting certain standards or qualifications, often used to describe institutions or programs that have been approved by a relevant authority.
Example
The university is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.
Conversation
Did you hear that the new university is accredited now?
That's great! It means their degrees will be recognized.
Exactly! I was worried it might not meet the standards.
No worries now — being accredited is a big deal.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
certified
authorized
recognized
Antonyms
unapproved
unauthorized
discredited
verb
Definition
To officially recognize or give approval to someone or something, often in a formal or official way.
Example
The university is accredited by a recognized national agency.
Tense Forms
Past: accredited
Past Participle: accredited
Conversation
Did you hear that my school just accredited a new program?
Really? That sounds exciting!
Yeah, it means we can finally offer more courses next semester.
Root Explanation
Accredited is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "creditus" (meaning believed or trusted). The word refers to being officially recognized or trusted by an authority.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'trusted' ('creditus') by an authority when you are 'approved' ('ad-') — that's what accredited means.
Visually Confused Words
unaccredited
nonaccredited
unaccreditated
uncredited
reaccredit
incredited