oath
/oʊθ/
NOUN
1. A solemn pledge or promise
A solemn declaration or promise, often invoking a deity or higher authority as a witness, to affirm the truth of a statement or one's commitment to fulfill an obligation.
1.1. A solemn promise or commitment
A formal and serious promise to do something or fulfill a particular responsibility.
Synonyms
- pledge
- promise
- vow
- undertaking
- commitment
- bond
- word of honor
- troth
Examples
- She made an oath to protect her family.
- The soldiers took an oath of loyalty to their country.
Related Words
- assurance
- guarantee
- obligation
- covenant
- agreement
- contract
1.2. A formal declaration under oath
A solemn statement made under a formal obligation to tell the truth, particularly in legal proceedings or official settings.
Synonyms
- affirmation
- sworn statement
- sworn declaration
- testimony
- deposition
- affidavit
Examples
- The witness gave an oath before answering questions in court.
- Her sworn declaration served as evidence in the legal proceedings.
Related Words
- attestation
- assurance
- witness
- courtroom
- testimony
- declaration
1.3. An official or ceremonial pledge
A formal promise made by someone assuming an official position or joining an organization, expressing loyalty and dedication to its duties.
Synonyms
- pledge
- vow
- affirmation
- commitment
- undertaking
Examples
- The newly elected president took an oath of office.
- Every recruit recited the military oath before beginning service.
Related Words
- oath of office
- allegiance
- loyalty
- duty
- responsibility
- ceremony
NOUN
2. A curse or swearword
An expression invoking a deity or another entity irreverently or insultingly, or a profane word used to express anger, frustration, or strong emotion.
2.1. An expression of profanity
A profane or offensive word or expression used to communicate anger, frustration, surprise, or other strong emotions.
Synonyms
- swearword
- cuss word
- expletive
- profanity
- curse word
- four-letter word
- strong language
Examples
- He muttered an oath when he accidentally dropped the heavy box.
- An angry oath escaped her lips when the door slammed shut.
Related Words
2.2. A curse or imprecation
An expression that invokes harm, punishment, or misfortune upon someone or something.
Synonyms
- curse
- imprecation
- malediction
- execration
Examples
- The old man uttered an oath against those who had betrayed him.
- She whispered a bitter oath as the carriage disappeared into the distance.
Related Words
- blessing
- condemnation
- damnation
- invocation
- profanity
VERB
3. To pledge or promise
To make a solemn promise or formal commitment.
3.1. Making a solemn commitment
To formally promise or pledge to fulfill an obligation or remain committed to a particular cause.
Synonyms
Examples
- The members oathed themselves to uphold the organization's principles.
Related Words
- commitment
- allegiance
- loyalty
- assurance
- declaration