witness stand

the place occupied by a person giving testimony in a court.

Also called, especially British, witness-box.

Origin of witness stand

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

witling, witloof, witness, witness box, witness corner, witness stand, witness-box, wits, witsie, witt, witte

I was afraid of the witness-stand and of what might be elicited from me if I once got into the hands of the lawyers.

Dark Hollow |Anna Katherine Green
“State your name to the court,” said Squire Barker, as the youth ascended the witness-stand.

The Rival Campers |Ruel Perley Smith
I am not on the witness-stand, and I won't be cross-questioned.

The Story of a Play |W. D. Howells
But I ain't a goin' t' 'til they put me on the witness-stand.

Fifty Contemporary One-Act Plays |Various

Ye have taken the witness-stand, and the world is hearing you.

Bible Emblems |Edward E. Seelye