Cre"dence (kr?"dens), n. [LL. credentia, fr. L. credens, -entis, p. pr. of credere to trust, believe: cf. OF. credence. See Creed, and cf. Credent, Creance.]
1.
Reliance of the mind on evidence of facts derived from other sources than personal knowledge; belief; credit; confidence.
To give credence to the Scripture miracles.
Trench.
An assertion which might easily find credence.
Macualay.
2.
That which gives a claim to credit, belief, or confidence; as, a letter of credence.
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.
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.
© Webster 1913.
Cre"dence, v. t.
To give credence to; to believe.
[Obs.]
© Webster 1913.