Definition

1. Noun:
   • A written declaration made under oath; a written statement sworn to be true before someone legally authorized to administer an oath, such as a notary public or a court officer.

Usage

An affidavit is a formal legal document. It is used to present facts or evidence in a court of law or for official administrative purposes. The person making the statement (the "affiant" or "deponent") must swear or affirm that the contents are true, and the document is signed in the presence of an authorized official.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The witness submitted a sworn affidavit detailing what she saw on the night of the incident.
  • You will need to sign an affidavit confirming your identity and address to complete the application.
  • The judge reviewed the affidavit before making a decision.

Advanced Usage

• "To swear (or make) an affidavit": The formal act of creating and signing this sworn statement.
  • The plaintiff was required to swear an affidavit in support of her claim.
• "To take an affidavit": The act of an authorized officer (like a notary) in administering the oath and certifying the document.
  • The lawyer took the client's affidavit in her office.

Variants and Related Words

• Affiant / Deponent (n): The person who makes and signs an affidavit.
• Affirm (v): To state something as a fact; to make a formal declaration without an oath (often used by those who object to swearing on religious grounds).
• Notarize (v): For a notary public to certify the authenticity of a signature on a document.

Synonyms

• Sworn statement: A statement made under oath.
• Declaration: A formal or explicit statement.
• Testimony (in written form): A formal written or spoken statement.

Related Phrases

• Affidavit of support: A specific type of affidavit where a sponsor promises financial support for an immigrant.
  • He provided an affidavit of support for his spouse's visa application.
• False affidavit: An affidavit containing untrue statements, which is a criminal offense (perjury).
  • Submitting a false affidavit can result in serious legal penalties.

Noun

1. written declaration made under oath; a written statement sworn to be true before someone legally authorized to administer an oath