Etymology

Noun

1. A solemn, authentic instrument in writing, by which a person declares his or her will as to disposal of his or her inheritance (estate and effects) after his or her death, benefiting specified heir(s).

   Note: This is otherwise called a will, and sometimes a last will and testament. A testament, to be valid, must conform in most states to applicable legal rules, which may include: be made by a person of sound mind; and be executed and published in due form of law. In certain cases one may make a valid will by word of mouth only. See {Nuncupative will}, under {nuncupative}.

2. One of the two distinct revelations of the Judeo-Christian God's purposes toward man; a covenant; also, one of the two general divisions of the canonical books of the Biblical Scriptures, in which the covenants are respectively revealed: the Old Testament and the New Testament; -- often limited, in colloquial language, to the latter.

   He is the mediator of the new testament ... for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament. --Heb. IX. 15.

3. A tangible proof or tribute.
4. A credo, expression of conviction

   The prime minister's speech was a glowing testament to the cabinet's undying commitment to the royal cause

Related terms

• intestate
• testate
• testator
• testify
• testimonial
• testimony

Declension

Noun

1. the (last) will (legal document)

Declension