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DictionarydeponentSworn witness
noun

deponent

dih-POH-nunt/dɪˈpoʊnənt/

A person who gives testimony under oath, especially in a deposition.

The deponent signs the sworn statement before the notary.

Witness signs sworn statement at small office table while raising other hand in oath beside notary with seal; focus on person giving written sworn evidence, only signature squiggle not words.
Etymology
deLatindown, aside
+ponLatinto put, place
+entLatinperforming the action

The image of 'putting down' connects with formally laying down testimony. A deponent is the person who makes a deposition, especially under oath.

In context

Get Divorce Answers1:06
When a deponent participates in a divorce deposition, they are under oath
What Is A Deponent? - Get Divorce Answers

More examples

  • The deponent asked the lawyer to repeat the question.
  • Both deponents testified about the events leading to the accident.
  • The court reporter prepared a transcript of the deponent's testimony.

Forms

deponent · deponents

depose verb — To question someone under oath formally.

deposition noun — Sworn testimony recorded outside a courtroom.

Similar words

witness
Broader term; may describe someone who observes rather than testifies.
affiant
Specifically someone who swears to a written statement.