\Cre"dence\ (kr[=e]"dens), n. [LL. credentia, fr. L.
credens, -entis, p. pr. of credere to trust, believe: cf. OF.
credence. See {Creed}, and cf. {Credent}, {Creance}.]
1. Reliance of the mind on evidence of facts derived from
   other sources than personal knowledge; belief; credit;
   confidence.
         To give credence to the Scripture miracles.
                                               --Trench.
         An assertion which might easily find credence.
                                               --Macaulay.
2. That which gives a claim to credit, belief, or confidence;
   as, a letter of credence.
3. (Eccl.) The small table by the side of the altar or
   communion table, on which the bread and wine are placed
   before being consecrated.
4. A cupboard, sideboard, or cabinet, particularly one
   intended for the display of rich vessels or plate, and
   consisting chiefly of open shelves for that purpose.

\Cre"dence\, v. t.
To give credence to; to believe. [Obs.]