# testament

/ˈtɛstəmənt/ (US) · /tˈɛstəmənt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/testament
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. proof of something

noun · CEFR B2

something that serves as clear proof that a quality, fact, or situation exists.

For teachers: tangible evidence or a tribute that serves as a demonstration of a particular quality, fact, or event.

- The success of the local library is a testament to the hard work of the volunteers.
- The cathedral's enduring structural integrity is a testament to the sophisticated engineering techniques employed by medieval stonemasons.

### 2. a legal will

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

a formal written document that says who should receive your money and property after you die.

For teachers: a solemn, authentic written instrument by which a person declares their will regarding the disposal of their estate after death.

- He left a last will and testament to ensure his children were provided for.
- The solicitor insisted that the last will and testament be witnessed by two independent parties to ensure its legal validity.

Usage: Commonly occurs in the fixed legal phrase 'last will and testament'.

### 3. scripture

noun · CEFR B1

one of the two main parts of the Christian Bible.

For teachers: one of the two primary divisions of the Christian biblical canon, namely the Old Testament or the New Testament.

- In school, we studied stories from the Old Testament.
- Scholars often compare the linguistic styles of the Greek New Testament with the Hebrew scriptures of the Old Testament.

### 4. a statement of belief

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary · Formal

a formal statement that explains your strong beliefs or principles.

For teachers: a formal expression of conviction or a credo.

- The artist's final exhibition was a moving testament of his political beliefs.
- The manifesto served as a powerful testament to the group's unwavering commitment to social reform and environmental justice.

## Examples

- The team's success is a testament to their hard work.
- The city's restored historic district stands as a testament to the community's dedication to preserving its local heritage.
- The enduring popularity of the novel, nearly a century after its initial publication, remains a powerful testament to the author's profound understanding of the human condition.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.