Pronunciation: [wɜː wˈɪtnəs] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "were witness" can be a bit confusing. The word "were" is pronounced /wɜːr/ and is used to indicate the past tense of "be". Meanwhile, "witness" is spelled phonetically as /ˈwɪtnəs/. Together, the phrase is pronounced /wɜːr ˈwɪtnəs/. This phrase is often used in legal and courtroom settings, where someone may be called upon to testify that they were present during a particular event or incident.
"Were witness" is a phrase in the English language that combines the verb "were" in the past tense of the verb "to be" with the noun "witness." When used together, the term "were witness" refers to a situation or event in which an individual has seen or observed something, often of significance or importance.
The phrase "were witness" emphasizes that the individual or individuals being referred to were present at the time the event occurred and can provide firsthand information about it. It implies that they have observed the event with their own eyes, and therefore can testify to its occurrence or provide a firsthand account.
The term can be applied in a legal context, where individuals who were witness to a crime or incident may be called upon to provide testimony or evidence. It can also be used more broadly in everyday language to describe situations where someone has observed or experienced something noteworthy, whether positive or negative, and can offer insight or information based on their firsthand experience.
Overall, the phrase "were witness" highlights the role of an individual who has personally seen or observed something and emphasizes their ability to provide credible information or testimony regarding the event.
The phrase "were witness" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two words: "were" and "witness".
"Were" is the plural form of the past tense of the verb "to be". It originated from Old English "wǣron" and has Germanic roots.
"Witness" comes from Old English "witnes" which means "knowledge, testimony, or evidence". It evolved from the Old English verb "witnian" meaning "to know" or "to declare". The word has Germanic origins as well.
When combined, the phrase "were witness" describes a situation where someone or something served as a witness in the past.
