obtest

A lawyer obtested the witness to tell the truth.

Definition

1. Verb (transitive):

   • To beseech or implore earnestly: "obtest" means to make a solemn or urgent request, often invoking a deity or witness.
   • To call upon as a witness: In a formal or archaic sense, "obtest" can mean to invoke someone or something as a witness to a statement or action.

2. Verb (intransitive):

   • To protest or object: "obtest" can also mean to express strong objection or opposition, typically in a formal or solemn manner.

Usage Examples

• Transitive:

  • He obtested the heavens to grant him mercy. (He earnestly implored the heavens for mercy.)
  • She obtested the ancient gods to witness her vow. (She called upon the ancient gods as witnesses to her promise.)

• Intransitive:

  • The citizens obtested against the unjust law. (The citizens strongly protested the unjust law.)
  • He obtested in vain, as the decision was already made. (He objected solemnly, but without success.)

Advanced Usage

• "to obtest someone to do something": to plead earnestly with someone to perform an action.

  • The priest obtested the congregation to repent. (The priest earnestly implored the congregation to repent.)

• "to obtest by": to call upon a specific entity as a witness or authority.

  • She obtested by the name of her ancestors. (She invoked her ancestors as witnesses.)

Variants and Related Words

• Obtestation (n): the act of obtesting; a solemn entreaty or protest.

  • His obtestation was met with silence. (His earnest plea was ignored.)

• Obtestatory (adj): relating to or characterized by obtesting.

  • The obtestatory speech moved the audience. (The pleading speech moved the audience.)

Synonyms

• Beseech: to beg or implore urgently.
• Entreat: to ask someone earnestly or anxiously.
• Invoke: to call upon a deity or spirit as a witness.
• Protest: to express strong objection (in the intransitive sense).

Related Idioms

• Obtest the gods: to make a solemn appeal to divine powers.

  • The king obtested the gods for victory in battle. (The king earnestly prayed for victory.)

• Obtest in vain: to plead or protest without success.

  • He obtested in vain, as no one listened. (His plea was futile.)