Affidavit \Af`fi*da"vit\, n. [LL. affidavit he has made oath, perfect tense of affidare. See Affiance, Affy.]

(Law) A sworn statement in writing; a declaration in writing, signed and made upon oath before an authorized magistrate. --Bouvier. --Burrill.

Note: It is always made ex parte, and without cross-examination, and in this differs from a deposition. It is also applied to written statements made on affirmation.

Syn: Deposition. See Deposition.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)