ascertain

 
Pronunciation: /ˌasəˈteɪn/

verb

[with object]
  • find (something) out for certain; make sure of: an attempt to ascertain the cause of the accident [with clause]: management should ascertain whether adequate funding can be provided

Derivatives

ascertainable

adjective

ascertainably

adverb

ascertainment

noun

Origin:

late Middle English (in the sense 'assure, convince'): from Old French acertener, based on Latin certus 'settled, sure'