What does testimonial mean?
A testimonial is a statement, written or spoken, that expresses praise or support for a person, product, organization, or service. It is often presented as evidence of that subject's quality or character, making it especially common in advertising, customer recommendations, professional profiles, and formal applications. A person gives a testimonial, while a company may collect or publish testimonials to build credibility. The word can also denote a formal letter supporting someone's abilities or character. Although commonly associated with enthusiastic praise, a testimonial need not be exaggerated; it may simply be a considered endorsement. Its meaning should therefore be distinguished from testimony, which is evidence given formally, particularly by a witness. The word is countable and commonly appears in the plural as “testimonials.” In everyday use, “glowing testimonial” denotes especially enthusiastic praise, while the unqualified form may indicate either strong or restrained approval.
nounA statement or letter praising or endorsing a person, product, organization, or service, often presented as evidence of its quality, character, or effectiveness.
- A statement of praise or endorsement for a person, product, organization, or service, especially one used as advertising or promotional evidence.
- A formal written statement recommending a person's character, abilities, or suitability.
"The website featured a moving testimonial from a customer whose life had been transformed by the service."
"The website featured a moving testimonial from a customer whose life had been transformed by the service."
"The former supervisor wrote a testimonial supporting her promotion."
The regular plural is used for individual statements of praise or endorsement, especially when several are collected or published.
"The charity's website displays testimonials from former participants and their families."
Testimonial originally meant “relating to testimony,” so its core idea is still that of a witness: someone speaking to what they have seen, experienced, or know.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does testimonial come from?
Testimonial entered English in the early 17th century through French testimonial, from Medieval Latin testimonialis, meaning “of or relating to testimony.” It ultimately derives from Latin testimonium, meaning “testimony,” from testis, meaning “witness,” the same root found in attest, testament, and contest.
Related word forms
How testimonial is actually used
Testimonial is common in advertising, customer reviews, and formal recommendations. It is more specific than praise when referring to a written or published statement, and “glowing testimonial” is a conventional expression for an especially favourable one.
Easily confused with testimonial
A testimonial is usually a statement of praise or recommendation, whereas testimony is a formal statement given as evidence, especially by a witness.