What does "testify" mean?

1. (in a court of law) to make a formal statement in court, promising that what you say is true. 2. (to show or prove) to be clear proof that something is true or exists. 3. (personal belief) to speak openly about your personal experiences or religious beliefs.

How do you use "testify"?

The verb is often followed by 'against' or 'on behalf of' a person. Usually takes the preposition 'to'. Often used intransitively in religious contexts.

testify

US //ˈtɛstəˌfaɪ// UK //tˈɛstɪfˌaɪ// tes·ti·fy

1 in a court of law (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

to make a formal statement in court, promising that what you say is true.

to give evidence as a witness in a court of law or before a judicial body, typically under oath.

Example

The witness was nervous when she had to testify in court about the accident.

Example

Several former employees agreed to testify against the corporation, providing crucial evidence regarding the safety violations.

Usage

The verb is often followed by 'against' or 'on behalf of' a person.
- give evidence
- bear witness
2 to show or prove (v.)
C1 Advanced Formal

to be clear proof that something is true or exists.

to serve as evidence or proof of a particular fact, quality, or situation.

Example

His many awards testify to his hard work and talent over the years.

Example

The high quality of the final product testifies to the meticulous attention to detail maintained throughout the manufacturing process.

Usage

Usually takes the preposition 'to'.
- disprove
- contradict

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3 personal belief (v.)
C1 Advanced Formal Religion

to speak openly about your personal experiences or religious beliefs.

to make a public statement about one's personal experiences, especially regarding religious faith or a transformative event.

Example

During the meeting, several people stood up to testify about how the group helped them.

Example

Members of the congregation were invited to testify to their experiences of spiritual healing during the Sunday service.

Usage

Often used intransitively in religious contexts.
- profess
- declare

Origin

PIE word *tréyes From Middle English testifien, borrowed from Old French testifier, from Latin testificārī (“to bear witness”), from testis (“a witness”) + facere (“to make”). See -fy.