Testament

/ˈtɛstəmənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A legal document declaring a person's wishes regarding the disposal of their property when they die.
She left a detailed testament outlining how her estate should be divided among her children.
A tangible proof or evidence of something.
The ancient ruins stand as a testament to the civilization that once thrived here.
In a religious context, a division of the Christian Bible (such as the Old Testament or New Testament).
He often refers to the teachings found in the New Testament in his sermons.

Etymology

From Latin testamentum, meaning 'a will, a covenant'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

final testament
A person's last will and testament.
testament to one's character
Evidence or proof of someone's character.
testament of faith
A declaration of religious belief.

Related Words

will
A legal document expressing a person's wishes regarding the disposal of their property.
legacy
Something handed down by a predecessor.

Slang Meanings