Testify

/ˈtɛstɪfaɪ/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To make a solemn declaration or statement, often under oath, in a court of law or in a formal setting.
The witness will testify about what she saw on the night of the incident.
To give evidence or bear witness to something.
He chose to testify in front of the committee regarding his experience.
To express or demonstrate something through evidence or experience.
Many people testify to the effectiveness of that new treatment.
To affirm or declare under oath, often in a legal context.
She was called to testify in the trial against the defendant.
To proclaim or affirm something as a truth.
Various experts testify to the importance of environmental conservation.

Etymology

From Latin 'testificare', meaning 'to bear witness'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

testify against:
To give evidence or information that supports a case against someone.
testify in court:
To give a formal statement of evidence in a law court.
testify under oath:
To declare something as the truth while swearing to the validity of the statement.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To brag or boast about something.
He was testifying about his new car at the party.
To share one's personal experience or opinions emphatically.
During the debate, she was really testifying about climate change.