Who is referred to as the testator?

The term "testator" refers specifically to an individual who makes a will, thereby expressing their intentions for how their estate should be distributed upon their death. This legal designation carries significant weight, as the testator's decisions are what form the basis of the will's validity and the subsequent execution of their wishes after their passing. This individual is responsible for outlining the beneficiaries, appointing executors, and detailing any specific bequests or conditions related to the inheritance. Understanding this role helps clarify the functions and responsibilities involved in estate planning and the legal framework governing wills.

Other roles mentioned in the question serve different purposes: those who inherit the estate are called beneficiaries, the individual managing the estate is usually referred to as the executor, and those witnessing the will are simply witnesses, who confirm the testator's signature and the voluntary nature of the will's creation.