credence

n. [ LL. credentia, fr. L. credens, -entis, p. pr. of credere to trust, believe: cf. OF. credence. See Creed, and cf. Credent, Creance. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

1. Reliance of the mind on evidence of facts derived from other sources than personal knowledge; belief; credit; confidence. [ 1913 Webster ]

To give credence to the Scripture miracles. Trench. [ 1913 Webster ]

An assertion which might easily find credence. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. That which gives a claim to credit, belief, or confidence; as, a letter of credence. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Eccl.) The small table by the side of the altar or communion table, on which the bread and wine are placed before being consecrated. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. A cupboard, sideboard, or cabinet, particularly one intended for the display of rich vessels or plate, and consisting chiefly of open shelves for that purpose. [ 1913 Webster ]