An authoritative grant or mark of recognition; a seal of approval.
An organized, long-distance bicycle ride — not a race, but a test of endurance — which follows a designated but unmarked route passing through check points.
A warrant from the government, granting a privilege, title, or dignity, as in France.
A military document entitling a commissioned officer to hold a higher rank temporarily, but without an increase in pay.
To promote by brevet.
A certificate that certifies an amount of money owed to someone; a certificate of indebtedness.
A type of debt instrument secured only by the general credit or promise to pay of the issuer, not involving any physical assets or collateral, now commonly issued by large, well established corporations with adequate credit ratings.
A document granting lenders a charge over a borrower’s physical assets, giving them a means to collect a debt, as part of a secured loan.