Testimony

Definition

Testimony refers to a formal written or spoken statement, especially one given in a court of law.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɛstɪˌmoʊni/
• Respelling: TES-tuh-moh-nee (with "TES" as in "test," "tuh" as a schwa sound like the 'a' in "sofa," "moh" as in "mow," and "nee" as in "knee")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɛstɪməni/
• Respelling: TES-ti-muh-nee (similar to American English, with "TES" as in "test," "ti" as in "bit," "muh" as a schwa sound, and "nee" like in "knee")

In both dialects, "testimony" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "TES." The pronunciation differences between American and British English primarily lie in the treatment of the middle syllables, reflecting the accent's influence on vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "testimony" has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word testimonium, which comes from testis meaning "witness."

Derivatives

• Testify (verb)
• Testifier (noun)
• Testimonial (noun, adjective)
• Testate (adjective)
• Testament (noun)

Synonyms

• Evidence
• Affidavit
• Deposition

Antonyms

None.

Usage

• The term "testimony" is most commonly used in legal contexts to refer to the formal statements made by individuals, under oath, regarding their knowledge or experiences related to a case at hand.
• It can also refer to any statement made by individuals attesting to the truth of something.

Related Terms

• Witness
• Declaration
• Certification

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Legal Statement: A formal, usually spoken, statement made by a witness in a court of law regarding their knowledge or experiences related to a case.
• Example: The victim’s testimony was crucial for the prosecution.

• General Statement: Any statement made by individuals attesting to the truth of something, even outside of a legal context.
• Example: Her testimony to her friend's kindness was heartfelt.

• Religious Declaration: In some religious contexts, a testimony refers to a personal declaration of faith or sharing of spiritual experiences.
• Example: He shared his testimony about his journey to faith during the service.