Pronunciation: [tˈɛstɪmənɪ] (IPA) 
The word "testimony" is spelled T-E-S-T-I-M-O-N-Y. The pronunciation is /ˈtɛstəmoʊni/. The word is derived from the Latin word "testis" which means "witness". The spelling follows typical English phonics rules with the "e" producing a short "e" sound "eh", the "o" producing a long "o" sound "oh", and the "y" serving as a consonant with a "yuh" sound. The stress is on the second syllable, which is common for words ending in "-mony".
Testimony refers to a formal written or oral statement given under oath by a witness in a court of law or at a formal proceeding, regarding their personal knowledge or experiences relevant to a case or matter being investigated. It serves as a means of providing evidence or information to help establish facts, determine the truth, or aid in making judgments or decisions. Testimonies are typically given by individuals who have witnessed events, actions, or circumstances directly associated with the case at hand.
In legal contexts, testimonies are crucial in trials as they can help corroborate or refute other evidence and are vital in establishing the credibility of witnesses. They can impact the outcome of a case, influence the opinions of judges or jurors, and play a significant role in the administration of justice. Testimonies are expected to be accurate, honest, and truthful, as per the requirement to swear an oath or affirm to tell the truth before providing a testimony.
Beyond legal proceedings, testimony can also refer to a statement, account, or declaration given by an individual regarding personal experiences, beliefs, or opinions. It may be shared publicly or privately, serving as a means of sharing information, providing an account of events, or expressing one's views or perspectives. In religious or spiritual contexts, testimony often refers to the act of sharing one's personal relationship or experiences with a higher power or divine entity. These testimonies are significant in some religious communities as they can support or inspire others in their own faith journeys.
The oral evidence given in a court of law.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Evidence; a solemn declaration or affirmation for the purpose of establishing or proving some fact; declaration; open attestation; in Scrip., the tables or book of the law; the Gospel; the Word of God.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word testimony has its roots in the Latin word testimonium, which means evidence or witness. It is derived from the Latin verb testari, meaning to witness or to testify. The Latin word further comes from the combination of testis, meaning witness, and the suffix -monium, which denotes a state or condition. The term was borrowed from Latin into Old French as testimonie and later entered Middle English as testimony.
