plural evidences
1
a
: something which shows that something else exists or is true
There is no evidence that these devices actually work.
He has been unable to find evidence to support his theory.
She first showed/gave evidence of her abilities [=she first showed her abilities] at an early age.
Investigators could find no evidence linking him to the crime.
He denies that he was involved, despite (abundant/ample) evidence to the contrary. [=despite evidence indicating that he was involved]
b
chiefly US, somewhat formal
: a visible sign of something
—usually plural
They found many evidences of neglect.
2
: material that is presented to a court of law to help find the truth about something
The jury had a great deal of evidence to sort through before reaching a verdict.
There is not a scrap/shred of evidence in her favor.
circumstantial evidence
Anything you say may be used as/in evidence against you.
The letter was admitted in evidence. = (chiefly US) The letter was admitted into evidence. [=the letter was accepted by the court as evidence]
You may be asked to give evidence [=testify] at the trial.
evidences; evidenced; evidencing
formal
: to offer or show evidence of (something) : to show or indicate (something)
certificates evidencing stock ownership
—often used as (be) evidencedThe effectiveness of the program is clearly evidenced [=shown] by the recent decrease in drug-related crimes throughout the city.
Cite this Entry
“Evidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/evidence. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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