evidence

Evidence is defined as something that gives proof or leads to a conclusion.

(noun)

The suspect's blood at the scene of a crime is an example of evidence.
The footprints in the house are an example of evidence that someone came inside.

The definition of evidence is to show proof.

(verb)

An example of evidence is to present research to prove the benefits of a new drug.

See evidence in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

Archaic the condition of being evident
something that makes another thing evident; indication; sign
something that tends to prove; ground for belief
Law something presented in a legal proceeding, as a statement of a witness, an object, etc., which bears on or establishes a point in question

Origin: ME < OFr < L evidentia < evidens, clear, evident < e-, from + videns, prp. of videre, to see: see wise

See evidence in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A thing or things helpful in forming a conclusion or judgment: The broken window was evidence that a burglary had taken place. Scientists weigh the evidence for and against a hypothesis.
Something indicative; an outward sign: evidence of grief on a mourner's face.
Law The documentary or oral statements and the material objects admissible as testimony in a court of law.

transitive verb ev·i·denced, ev·i·denc·ing, ev·i·denc·es