Apostille Meaning and Definition

Apostille

Apostille

Pronunciation

/əˈpɒstɪl/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A document with an official seal or signature, especially one certified as authentic by a relevant authority, such as a notary public.

Etymology

The word apostille comes from the French aposterillite, derived from the Latin apostilium, meaning “postscript” or “appendix”, and aposto, meaning “to append”.

Usage Notes

The apostille is typically used to authenticate documents, such as diplomatic documents, academic transcripts, or birth certificates, for use in international transactions, like foreign marriage or adoption.

Cultural References

In the movie “Forrest Gump”, Forrest receives a copy of his birth certificate with an apostille, highlighting the importance of document authenticity.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

None

Related Words or Phrases

  • Authentication
  • Verification
  • Notarization

Collocations

  • Apostille on a document
  • Get an apostille
  • Apostille authentication

Frequency of Use

The word apostille is commonly used in international transactions, but it is not frequently used in everyday conversation.

Common Misspellings

  • Apstille
  • Apostile
  • Apistile

Related Words