trial by certificate

: a trial of an issue formerly determined exclusively by the testimony of a person (as a military officer) certifying to what is peculiarly within his knowledge (as that a soldier is absent)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now