Meaning & Definition of word "Eyewitness"

Eyewitness

/ˈaɪˌwɪt.nəs/

1. A person who sees an event, typically a crime or accident, and can provide a firsthand account of it.
- Example: The police are looking for an eyewitness who can describe what happened during the robbery.
2. A person who has direct knowledge of an event through personal observation.
- Example: As an eyewitness to the accident, she was able to give a detailed statement to the authorities.
3. Someone who can testify about an event based on what they have seen.
- Example: During the trial, the eyewitness provided crucial evidence that helped convict the defendant.
4. A bystander who observes an event and can recount the events as they occurred.
- Example: The eyewitness at the scene described how the two cars collided at the intersection.

1. To be present at and observe an event occur.
- Example: He eyewitnessed the parade from the front row, enjoying the vibrant displays.

The word 'eyewitness' is a combination of 'eye' + 'witness', likely first used in the early 15th century.

eyewitness account:

A report or statement that describes what an eyewitness saw.

eyewitness testimony:

A legal term referring to evidence given by someone who has directly observed the event.

witness:

A person who sees an event and can provide a first-hand account.

testimony:

A formal written or spoken statement, especially in a court of law.

Meaning: eye on the scene

Example Sentence: The cops are looking for an eye on the scene to get more details.

Meaning: first-hander

Example Sentence: He's a first-hander on the situation; make sure to ask him.