A person officially authorized to witness the signing of important documents and verify identities. They help prevent fraud by confirming that signatures are real and voluntary.
From Latin “notarius,” meaning “secretary” or “clerk,” from “nota” (a mark or note). The role evolved from someone who wrote official notes to someone who authenticates legal documents.
A notary’s stamp or seal can make a simple piece of paper legally powerful, especially across borders or in court. In some countries, notaries are more like high-level legal experts, while in others they mainly verify signatures.
Historically, legal and clerical professions, including notaries, were restricted to men in many jurisdictions, and language often reflected this through masculine titles and assumptions. Over time, women entered the profession, but some cultures retained stereotypes of legal authority as male.
Use gender-neutral terms like “notary” or “notary public” without assuming gender, and avoid pairing the role with gendered pronouns unless you know the person’s preference.
["notary","notary public","notarial officer"]
Women have long served as notaries and legal clerks, especially in administrative and documentation roles that were often under-credited despite being essential to legal systems.
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