The word "proof" refers to evidence or argument that demonstrates the truth or validity of something. It can also mean a trial or test of something to verify its quality or performance. In mathematics, a proof is a logical argument that establishes the truth of a theorem.
The word "proof" comes from the Old French "proef," which means evidence or test, derived from the Latin "probatio" meaning a test or proof. The root "probare" means to test or prove, which traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root "pro-" meaning to test or demonstrate.