confirm

con|firm [ kən`fɜrm ] verb ***

1. ) transitive to prove that something is true:

The study confirms the findings of earlier research.

Please bring something with you that confirms your identity.

confirm (that): The doctor may run a test to confirm that you are pregnant.

a ) to make you feel sure that an idea or belief is right or true:

confirm someone's suspicions: Their strange behavior was enough to confirm my suspicions.

confirm someone's fears: When she saw the letter her worst fears were confirmed.

confirm someone in their belief/view/determination etc.: His words confirmed me in my belief that our cause was right.

b ) to say that something is definitely true because you know about it:

We cannot confirm the number of jobs that will be lost.

confirm that: The principal confirmed that two pupils had been expelled.

2. ) intransitive or transitive to tell someone, usually by writing or telephoning, that something will definitely happen at the time or in the way that has been arranged:

You can make an appointment now, and then call nearer the time to confirm.

The date of the meeting is still to be confirmed.

3. ) transitive to formally support something and allow it to happen:

The parliament's decision still has to be confirmed in a referendum.

a ) to formally accept someone new in an important position:

Nigel Hill was yesterday confirmed as the new chief executive.

4. ) transitive usually passive to formally accept someone into the Christian Church or a Reform Jewish Church in a special ceremony