Diplo'ma

Diplo'ma (Gr., 'something doubled'), originally a document on two tablets of wax (see DIPTYCH), or on writing material which was folded. The Roman emperors granted diplomas to couriers, giving them the use of public servants and horses; hence diploma came to signify an official warrant of any kind. The term is now mostly applied to instruments given by universities and other learned societies, in proof of the holder having attained a certain degree; to the licenses held by physicians and surgeons; and to certificates of merit awarded at exhibitions.