affidavit

[af-i-dey-vit]

noun

Law.

1. a written declaration upon oath made before an authorized official.

affidavit

/ ˌæfɪˈdeɪvɪt /

noun

1. law a declaration in writing made upon oath before a person authorized to administer oaths, esp for use as evidence in court

Other Word Forms

• preaffidavit noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of affidavit¹

First recorded in 1615–25; from Medieval Latin affīdāvit “(he) has declared on oath,” 3rd-person singular perfect of affīdāre “to declare an oath”; affiance

Word History and Origins

Origin of affidavit¹

C17: from Medieval Latin, literally: he declares on oath, from affīdare to trust (oneself) to; see _affiance

Example Sentences

Zuma-Sambudla had responded to the accusations in a formal affidavit to the police, the party said.

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In her affidavit, Zuma-Sambudla reveals that she herself had received non-combat training in Russia, and it was arranged by a man whom, she says, she did not know until he contacted her.

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All three balls were authenticated by SCP Auctions through notarized affidavits and lie detector tests.

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Beverley’s sister also stated that he slammed her body against the walls and punched her in the left eye, according to the affidavit.

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To use this option, the executor files an affidavit of voluntary administration.

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Related Words

• oath 
• testimony