testify
UK: ˈtɛstɪfaɪ | US: ˈtɛstɪfaɪ
vi. to make a formal statement or declaration, especially in a court of law
vt. to serve as evidence or proof of something
The word "testify" traces back to the Latin testificari, combining testis (witness) and -ficare (to make). Historically, it referred to the act of bearing witness under oath, often in legal contexts. The root testis also appears in related words like "testimony" and "attest," reinforcing its connection to truth and evidence. Over time, "testify" expanded to include broader declarations of truth or evidence beyond legal settings.
The witness will testify in court tomorrow.
Her actions testify to her commitment to justice.
He refused to testify against his colleague.
The data testifies to the success of the experiment.
Ancient artifacts testify to the civilization's advanced technology.