affidavit

American  

[af-i-dey-vit] / ˌæf ɪˈdeɪ vɪt /

noun

Law.

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

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affidavit British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• preaffidavit noun

Etymology

Origin of affidavit

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

Example Sentences

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

From Barron's

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.

From BBC

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

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

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

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• oath
• testimony