Testimony
Etymology
From Latin “testimonium,” from “testis” (a witness). The same “testis” root feeds “testify,” “testament,” and “attest” — and, by a disputed folk tradition, even “testicle,” from the notion of swearing an oath by touching them (etymologists treat that link as unproven).
noun · /TES-tuh-moh-nee/
A statement made under oath by a witness, offered as evidence in a legal proceeding.
What it names
Evidence that comes out of a person’s mouth rather than off a page — reach for it to distinguish what a witness says from the physical exhibits.
Example
Her testimony contradicted the security footage, forcing the prosecution to rethink its timeline.
Related idea
A deposition is testimony taken out of court beforehand under oath; courtroom testimony is the live version delivered before the judge and jury.