What does testimony mean?
Testimony is a formal statement made by a witness, especially in a legal proceeding where the witness may be sworn in and questioned. In this central sense, it functions as evidence: a court may consider eyewitness testimony, expert testimony, or testimony from someone directly affected by an event. The word also has a broader meaning, as when a person's experience is described as testimony to courage, hardship, or a particular way of life. In everyday use, testimony tends to sound serious, authoritative, and somewhat formal, and it may imply that a claim is supported by personal experience rather than mere opinion. Its Latin origin links it to the idea of witnessing, which explains its association with both legal proceedings and personal accounts that bear witness to a larger truth.
nounA statement made by a witness, especially one given formally under oath in a legal proceeding. More broadly, testimony means evidence or a statement that confirms a belief or experience.
- A formal statement given by a witness, especially under oath in a court of law.
- Evidence, confirmation, or a written statement of belief or experience.
"The witness gave powerful testimony in support of the prosecution's case."
"The court heard testimony from several witnesses who had observed the incident."
"Her account of the journey served as testimony to the transformative power of travel."
The regular plural is testimonies.
"The court heard testimonies from both the eyewitnesses and the investigators."
Testimony literally points to a witness: its Latin roots refer to the testimony of someone who bears witness.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does testimony come from?
Testimony comes from the Latin testimonium, a word meaning a witness's statement, derived from testis, meaning witness or one who testifies. English borrowed the word in the Middle English period, and it became especially established in legal language as a statement made by a witness under oath. The same root appears in related English words such as attest, testify, testimonial, and testament.
How testimony is actually used
In legal contexts, testimony is usually formal and may be spoken or written, often under oath. Outside law, the word can sound elevated or literary and refers to compelling evidence of a quality, belief, or experience.
Easily confused with testimony
Testimony is a statement or evidence given by a witness, whereas a testament is a written statement of wishes, especially concerning the disposal of property after death.