noun
Uncommon
credentials
Credentials (noun) means Documents or qualifications that prove a person is who they claim to be or is qualified for a role. Example: “She had to show her academic credentials before the interview panel would consider her.”
noun
1
Documents or qualifications that prove a person is who they claim to be or is qualified for a role.
"She had to show her academic credentials before the interview panel would consider her."
"The new ambassador presented her credentials to the head of state."
"The applicant's credentials included a degree and ten years of teaching experience."
2
A username and password, or similar details, used to log in to a system.
"Never share your login credentials with anyone over email."
"I forgot my credentials, so I had to reset my password."
"The website asks you to enter your credentials each time you sign in."
How to use credentials
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishProof of qualifications or identity — either on paper or, online, your login details.
Common pairings
login credentials
academic credentials
present credentials
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She had to show her academic _____ before the interview panel would consider her.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for credentials
See all rhymes for credentials →Frequently asked questions
What does “credentials” mean?
The word “credentials” means documents or qualifications that prove a person is who they claim to be or is qualified for a role. In plain terms, proof of qualifications or identity — either on paper or, online, your login details.
How do you use “credentials” in a sentence?
Here is “credentials” used in a sentence: “She had to show her academic credentials before the interview panel would consider her.”
What part of speech is “credentials”?
“Credentials” is a noun.
Is “credentials” a common word?
“Credentials” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “credentials” have?
“Credentials” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: documents or qualifications that prove a person is who they claim to be or is qualified for a role.
What is the difference between credentials and qualifications?
Credentials are the documents or proofs, such as certificates, licenses, or ID cards, that verify a person's identity or qualifications, while qualifications refer more broadly to the skills, education, or experience themselves. A person's degree is a qualification; the diploma certifying it is a credential.
What does it mean to enter your credentials online?
Entering your credentials online means providing the username and password, or similar login details, required to access a system or account. This use of credentials is standard in computing and IT security contexts.
Why is credentials almost always used in the plural?
Credentials is used almost exclusively in the plural because it refers to a set of proofs or details, such as a username and password together, or multiple certificates and qualifications, rather than a single item. The singular "credential" exists but is used less frequently, often to refer to one specific document or login element.
