Official documents certifying the successful completion of a course of study or conferring an academic degree. Formal certificates awarded by educational institutions.
From Latin 'diploma' meaning 'folded paper, letter of recommendation,' from Greek 'diplōma' meaning 'folded document,' from 'diploun' (to double, fold). Originally referred to any official document, narrowing to educational certificates in the 17th century.
The tradition of rolling diplomas and tying them with ribbons comes from ancient times when important documents were stored as scrolls. Many universities still hand out empty diploma covers at graduation - the actual diploma arrives weeks later after final grade verification!
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