DIPLOMA
diploma, sheepskin
(noun) a document certifying the successful completion of a course of study
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Etymology
Noun
diploma (plural diplomas or diplomata)
A document issued by an educational institution testifying that the recipient has earned a degree or has successfully completed a particular course of study.
Source: Wiktionary
Di*plo"ma, n.; pl. Diplomas. Etym: [L., fr. Gr. Double.]
Definition: A letter or writing, usually under seal, conferring some
privilege, honor, or power; a document bearing record of a degree
conferred by a literary society or educational institution.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition