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verb Uncommon

attest

uh-TEHST

Attest (verb) means to confirm or declare that something is true or genuine. Example: “Several witnesses attested to his good character.”

verb
1
To confirm or declare that something is true or genuine.
"Several witnesses attested to his good character."
2
To serve as proof or evidence of something.
"The scars on the old bridge attest to decades of storms."
3
To certify formally, especially by signing one's name.
"The document was attested by a notary public."

How to use attest

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo confirm something is true, or to serve as evidence proving it.

Common pairings
attest to the fact duly attested witnesses attest

Word forms

attested past tense, attests singular

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Fill the gap

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Several witnesses _____ to his good character.

Etymology

From Latin attestari, "to bear witness to," from ad- ("to") plus testari ("to witness"), from testis ("a witness").

Origin: Latin

evidence demonstrate testify manifest certify bear witness take the stand

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “attest” mean?

The word “attest” means to confirm or declare that something is true or genuine. In plain terms, to confirm something is true, or to serve as evidence proving it.

How do you pronounce “attest”?

“Attest” is pronounced uh-TEHST (/əˈtɛst/ in IPA).

How do you use “attest” in a sentence?

Here is “attest” used in a sentence: “Several witnesses attested to his good character.”

What part of speech is “attest”?

“Attest” is a verb.

Where does the word “attest” come from?

The word “attest” comes from Latin. From Latin attestari, "to bear witness to," from ad- ("to") plus testari ("to witness"), from testis ("a witness").

Is “attest” a common word?

“Attest” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “attest” have?

“Attest” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to confirm or declare that something is true or genuine.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial