witness
UK: ˈwɪtnəs | US: ˈwɪtnəs
n. a person who sees an event, typically a crime or accident, and can provide information about it
n. evidence or proof of something
vt. to see an event, typically a crime or accident, and be able to provide information about it
vt. to serve as evidence or proof of something
The word "witness" evolved from Old English ġewitness ("knowledge, testimony"), combining wit (knowledge) and -ness (state of being). Initially, it referred to someone with firsthand knowledge of an event, emphasizing the cognitive aspect ("knowing"). Over time, it narrowed to legal and observational contexts, retaining its core idea of providing evidence or attestation.
The police interviewed a witness who saw the accident.
Her smile was a witness to her happiness.
He agreed to witness the signing of the contract.
Ancient artifacts witness the civilization's advanced technology.
Can anyone witness this event and confirm what happened?