Mental acceptance of something as true or real; belief.
Example:
He scoffed and said that no one still gives any credence to the story of the Loch Ness monster.
Credence is close in meaning to belief, but there are differences. Unlike belief, credence is seldom used in connection with faith in a religion or philosophy. Instead, credence is often used in reference to reports, rumors, and opinions. Claims that a political candidate can become the next President gain credence only after the candidate wins a few primaries. Stories about Elvis sightings persist, but they lack credence for most people.