■ noun
1》 a formal examination of evidence in order to decide guilt in a case of criminal or civil proceedings.
2》 a test of performance, qualities, or suitability.
↘a sports match to test the ability of players eligible for selection to a team.
↘a test of individual ability on a motorcycle.
↘( ~s ) an event in which horses or dogs compete or perform.
3》 a test of a person's endurance or forbearance.
■ verb ( ~s , ~ling , ~led ; US ~s , ~ing , ~ed )
1》 test (something) to assess its suitability or performance.
2》 (of a horse or dog) compete in ~s.
Phrases
on ~
1》 being tried in a court of law.
2》 undergoing tests or scrutiny.
~ and error the process of experimenting with various methods until one finds the most successful.
Origin
ME: from Anglo-Norman Fr., or from med. L. ~lum .