evidence
/ˈɛvɪdəns/
noun
Origin
Latin
evidentia — obviousness, distinctness
Overview
Meaning Now
- The available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid.
- Information used in a legal investigation to prove facts or support a case.
Literal older meaning
the state of being visible or manifest
Language path
Latin → Old French → Middle English → English
Earliest form
evidence
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The word entered English through the transition of French as the language of the law in England. It originally emphasized the 'obviousness' of something presented to the senses or intellect, later centering on the legal concept of proof.
Evolution
- Latin (classical)
evidentia
“clarity, plainness”
Derived from 'evidens' (obvious).
- Old French
evidence
“obviousness, clarity”
- Middle English
evidence
“proof, manifestation”
Introduced into English legal vocabulary.
Connections
Word parts
e-
prefix
out/from
vid-
root
to see
-ence
suffix
state or quality of
Related across languages
French
évidence
obviousness
Spanish
evidencia
evidence
Explore next
Related to evidence
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.