n. a friend of the court. One, who as a stander by, when a judge is doubtful or mistaken in a matter of law, may inform the court; someone who is not a party to a case but who volunteers to offer information on a point of law or some other aspect of the case to assist the court of law. The nature of help could be legal opinion, testimonial or learn... Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/local/21213
Af·fi'ant noun [ From present participle of Old French afier , Late Latin affidare . See Affidavit .] (Law) One who makes an affidavit. [ U. S.] Burrill. Syn. -- Deponent. See Deponent . Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/webster/A/38
Someone who signs an affidavit and swears to its truth before a notary public or another person authorized to take oaths, such as a county clerk. Compare: declarant Found on http://www.nolo.com/dictionary/affiant-term.html