Evidence

Definition

Evidence is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to information, facts, or objects that support the truth or validity of a claim or belief. As a verb, it means to show or demonstrate clearly through evidence or proof.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛvɪdəns/
• Respelling: EV-uh-dens

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛvɪdəns/
• Respelling: EV-ih-dens

Etymology

The word "evidence" originates from the Latin "evidentia," meaning "obviousness" or "clearness," derived from "evidens" meaning "obvious." It passed through Old French "evidence" before being adopted into Middle English, retaining its sense of clear proof or support for a claim.

Derivatives

• Evident (adjective)
• Evidence-based (adjective)
• Self-evident (adjective)
• Evidently (adverb)
• Unevidenced (adjective)

Synonyms

• Proof
• Testimony
• Verification

Antonyms

• Contradiction
• Disproof
• Refutation

Usage

The term "evidence" is commonly used in legal, scientific, and academic contexts to support claims or arguments, as in "The lawyer presented new evidence in court." It can also describe the act of proving something in various fields, as in "Their research evidences a strong correlation."

Related Terms

• Proof: Information or argument establishing a fact as true.
• Verification: Confirmation or validation of information.
• Substantiation: Support for a claim or assertion through evidence.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Information or facts supporting a claim or argument: Refers to data or details that help establish a statement as true or valid.
  • Example: "The report provided substantial evidence of climate change."
• Objects or materials used as proof in legal contexts: Refers to items presented in court to prove or disprove a case.
  • Example: "The fingerprints found were crucial evidence in the investigation."

Verb

• To show or demonstrate clearly through evidence: Describes the action of proving or validating something by means of factual information.
  • Example: "His calm demeanor evidenced his experience in handling crises."