Testis
/ˈtɛs.tɪs/noun
A term referring to the male reproductive organ that produces sperm and hormones.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, 'testis' meant both 'witness' and 'testicle', hinting at the notion of masculinity tied to testimony and truth.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*tes-
“to bear witness, to testify.”
Latin
Latin
testis
“witness, one who gives testimony.”
Old French
Old French
testimonie
“witnessing, evidence.”
Middle English
Middle English
testimonie
“the act of bearing witness, proof.”
Modern English
English
testis
“the male reproductive organ, retaining the witness connection.”