Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913
Credence
Cre′dence (krē′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. Macaulay.
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.
Cre′dence, v. t. To give credence to; to believe. [Obs.]