Testament: meaning, definitions and examples

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testament

[ ˈtɛstəmənt ]

^{Context #1}

legal document

A testament is a legal document that states what a person wants to happen to their possessions after they die. It typically includes instructions for who will inherit their property and assets.

Synonyms

bequest, inheritance document, will

Examples of usage

He left his entire estate to his children in his last testament.
The lawyer advised her to update her testament to ensure her wishes were carried out.
The testament was read aloud in front of the family after the funeral.
The testament specified that the family home should be sold and the proceeds divided equally.
In some cultures, a testament may also include personal messages or final thoughts from the deceased.

^{Context #2}

religious document

In a religious context, a testament refers to a sacred text or scripture that is considered authoritative or binding for believers. For example, the Old Testament and the New Testament are the two main divisions of the Christian Bible.

Synonyms

holy book, religious text, scripture

Examples of usage

She found solace in reading the verses from the Old Testament.
The preacher quoted a passage from the New Testament during the sermon.
Studying the testament is an important part of religious education.
Many people turn to the testament for guidance and inspiration.
The testament provides a moral compass for believers to follow.

Translations

Translations of the word "testament" in other languages:

🇵🇹 testamento

🇮🇳 वसीयतनामा

🇩🇪 Testament

🇮🇩 wasiat

🇺🇦 заповіт

🇵🇱 testament

🇯🇵 遺言

🇫🇷 testament

🇪🇸 testamento

🇹🇷 vasiyet

🇰🇷 유언장

🇸🇦 وصية

🇨🇿 závěť

🇸🇰 testament

🇨🇳 遗嘱

🇸🇮 oporoka

🇮🇸 erfðaskrá

🇰🇿 өсиет

🇬🇪 გვერდი

🇦🇿 vəsiyyət

🇲🇽 testamento

Word origin

The word 'testament' has Latin origins, coming from the Latin word 'testamentum' meaning 'a will, testimony'. It has evolved over time to refer to both legal documents specifying inheritance and religious texts considered sacred. The use of 'testament' to describe a legal will dates back to the early 14th century, while its religious connotation can be traced to the Middle English period. Throughout history, the concept of a testament has been significant in both legal and religious contexts, shaping the way individuals pass on their possessions and beliefs.