noun

declaration

dek-luh-RAY-shun/ˌdekləˈreɪʃn/

A formal or official statement.

She reads a formal declaration to the audience gathered before her.

A white woman at a civic lectern solemnly addresses a small diverse audience, blank document in hand.

Etymology

deLatinperhaps adds emphasis

+clarLatinto make clear

+ationLatinaction or result

The central idea is “making clear,” with de- perhaps adding emphasis. A declaration makes something explicit in words, which connects its early meaning “explanation” with the sense of a formal public statement.

In context

The Unifying Lens - Origins16:12

the colonies declare themselves free and independent states. Congress appointed a five member committee, including Thomas Jefferson, [music] John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin to draft a formal declaration.

Thirteen Colonies Didn't Trust Each Other. Here's How They Became One Country Anyway

More examples

The committee issued a formal declaration.
His declaration of support surprised the audience.
Several declarations accompanied the treaty.

Forms

declaration · declarations

Similar words

announcement: May be less formal or less emphatic.
proclamation: A proclamation often carries official authority or public ceremony.