Wearing a navy-blue business suit, and looking tired and pale, she left the federal courthouse in Washington after about eight hours of testimony.

Listen to Judy Smith's speech

Her spokeswoman, Judy Smith, said Miss Lewinsky had answered all the questions "truthfully and completely".

"Monica and her family are relieved that this ordeal finally appears to be coming to an end," she said.

Lewinsky on photo-shoot for US glossy

Miss Lewinsky is due to return to continue her testimony, but BBC Washington correspondent Tom Carver said it was unlikely to be on Friday.

Mr Clinton carried on his normal presidential duties but much of the White House press corps was busy besieging the courthouse where the former intern gave evidence in secret.

Miss Lewinsky, 25, agreed last week to co-operate with the investigation by the special prosecutor, Kenneth Starr, in return for immunity from prosecution.

The BBC's Philippa Thomas: 'Her words could change the course of the Clinton presidency'

Reports suggest she said she did have an affair, but correspondents say the big question is whether she will testify that Mr Clinton urged her to lie about it under oath.

The testimony may not be made public until Mr Starr publishes his report, possibly in September.

Correspondents say the US media is fascinated with the case and speculation, possibly spiced with leaks, will be feverish.

Clinton to testify soon

Mr Clinton is to give evidence himself, on a video link from the White House, on August 17.

But while Miss Lewinsky gave her evidence, our correspondent says the president tried to give the impression of "business as usual".

Tom Reid of the Washington Post on Clinton's popularity: 'It doesn't really matter what he's done'

His spokesman, Barry Toiv, said the president hopes Miss Lewinsky's appearance at the grand jury will mark the beginning of the end of the special prosecutor's investigation.

"If this means that we're coming to the end of this four-year, over $40m investigation, then that would be a good thing," he said.

Democratic fundraiser John Sullivan: 'Lewinsky fantasised about a relationship'

Meanwhile a Democratic Party fundraiser who helped to organise the rally at which Mr Clinton was photographed hugging Miss Lewinsky claimed Miss Lewinsky "fantasised" about a relationship with Mr Clinton.