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witnessing

v. · n.
US //ˈwɪtnəsɪŋ// UK //wˈɪtnəsɪŋ// wit·ness·ing
  1. 1 seeing an event (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    seeing something happen, especially a crime, an accident, or a major event.

    observing an event firsthand, often implying the observer's presence at a significant or legal occurrence.

    Example

    People standing nearby were witnessing the accident as it happened.

    Example

    By witnessing the signing of the treaty, the ambassadors ensured that the transition of power was documented by neutral parties.

    Usage

    Often used in the progressive tense to describe an ongoing observation of a historical or dramatic event.
  2. 2 experiencing a change (v.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    being the time or place where a big change happens.

    serving as the temporal or spatial setting for a significant development or shift.

    Example

    The city is witnessing a period of very fast growth.

    Example

    The late twentieth century was witnessing a radical shift in global communication as digital technologies began to displace traditional media.

    Usage

    Commonly used with a time period or a location as the subject.
  3. 3 giving testimony (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    the act of telling what you saw or what you believe is true.

    the act of providing evidence or testimony, often in a legal or religious context.

    Example

    Her witnessing in court helped the jury make their final decision.

    Example

    The public witnessing of the oath was a requirement for the ceremony to be considered legally binding under the old statutes.

    Usage

    Functions as a gerund; often followed by 'to' when describing the subject of the testimony.

Last updated June 20, 2026