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The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner
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Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.

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 632 pages, 147 lessons, 428 practical activities.

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witness

IPA:

How to pronounce witness (audio)

Dictionary definition of witness

To observe, see, or be present during an event, incident, or occurrence.
"I had the opportunity to witness a beautiful sunset over the ocean."

Detailed meaning of witness

When someone witnesses something, they have firsthand knowledge or experience of it. This can involve watching or perceiving an event with one's senses, such as seeing, hearing, or even feeling it. Witnesses play a crucial role in providing testimony or evidence about what they have observed, often serving as key sources of information in legal, investigative, or historical contexts. To witness can also imply being aware of or experiencing something personally, such as witnessing a beautiful sunset or witnessing the impact of a significant societal change. In essence, the act of witnessing involves being present and actively perceiving or experiencing an event or phenomenon.

Example sentences containing witness

1. The security camera will witness any unauthorized entry into the building.
2. The bystander was able to witness the entire incident and provided a detailed account to the police.
3. She was thrilled to witness her favorite band perform live on stage.
4. The child's laughter was a joy to witness in the playground.
5. The scientist conducted an experiment to witness the chemical reaction firsthand.
6. I couldn't believe my luck when I got to witness a rare celestial event.

History and etymology of witness

The verb 'witness' has its roots in Old English, where it originated from the word 'witan,' meaning to know or be aware of. In Middle English, this term evolved into 'witeness,' which denoted having knowledge or being aware of something. Over time, it transitioned into the modern verb 'witness,' which retains the essence of observing or being present during an event, incident, or occurrence, reflecting its historical association with awareness and knowledge of what one has seen.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the verb witness:

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Further usage examples of witness

1. The photographer was eager to witness the wildlife in their natural habitat.
2. It was a privilege to witness the exchange of vows at their wedding ceremony.
3. The teacher was proud to witness her student's academic growth throughout the year.
4. The historian uncovered a rare document that allowed us to witness a significant moment in history.
5. The artist created a masterpiece that allowed viewers to witness the depth of emotion.
6. The marathon runner pushed through the pain to witness the finish line.
7. The archaeologist was excited to witness the unearthing of an ancient artifact.
8. The audience held their breath as they witnessed the high-wire acrobat's daring performance.
9. The traveler was fortunate to witness a traditional cultural ceremony during their trip.
10. The therapist was able to witness the client's transformation as they worked through their issues.
11. The journalist was sent to the war-torn country to witness the devastation firsthand.
12. The young child's innocence was a pure joy to witness.
13. The hiker reached the summit to witness a breathtaking panoramic view.
14. The courtroom was filled with tension as the jury prepared to witness the final verdict.

Suffix -ness, Alternation and Rotation, Insight and Intrigue, Wholeness and Completion, Events and Milestones

behold,catch,detect,notice,perceive,view

experience,note,observe,see,survey,watch

observe, ignore, overlook, miss

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