oaths
/oʊðz/
NOUN
1. Solemn pledges or promises
Solemn declarations or promises, often invoking a deity, ruler, or other authority as a witness, to affirm the truth of a statement or commitment to fulfill an obligation.
1.1. Formal promises and commitments
Serious promises or pledges made to fulfill a duty, honor an agreement, or remain committed to a particular responsibility.
Synonyms
- pledges
- promises
- vows
- commitments
- undertakings
- bonds
- assurances
- troths
Examples
- The knights exchanged solemn oaths of loyalty before embarking on their quest.
- The newlyweds exchanged heartfelt oaths of love and commitment.
Related Words
- agreements
- contracts
- covenants
- guarantees
- obligations
- allegiance
- loyalty
1.2. Binding agreements and obligations
Formal commitments that establish duties, responsibilities, or obligations between individuals or groups.
Synonyms
- agreements
- compacts
- contracts
- covenants
- engagements
- undertakings
Examples
- The secret society bound its members with mysterious oaths that were never to be broken.
- Their oaths established a lasting commitment between the two organizations.
Related Words
- arrangements
- appointments
- securities
- guarantees
- warranties
- deposits
NOUN
2. Sworn statements or declarations
Statements or promises strengthened by a solemn pledge, affirming that the information given is truthful or that a commitment will be honored.
2.1. Declarations of truth
Formal statements made under a solemn obligation to tell the truth, particularly in legal or official proceedings.
Synonyms
- assurances
- affirmations
- sworn statements
Examples
- In the courtroom, witnesses were reminded of the gravity of their spoken oaths.
- The witnesses carefully considered their oaths before giving testimony.
Related Words
- testimony
- depositions
- affidavits
- attestations
- declarations
- witnesses
NOUN
3. Profane or insulting expressions
Irreverent or insulting expressions invoking a deity or another entity, including curses and swearwords.
3.1. Swearwords and profanity
Profane or offensive words used to express anger, frustration, surprise, or other strong emotions.
Synonyms
- swearwords
- cusswords
- expletives
- profanities
- curses
- obscenities
- four-letter words
Examples
- The sailor shouted several oaths when the storm damaged the vessel.
- Angry oaths filled the room after the unexpected announcement.
Related Words
- vulgarisms
- epithets
- imprecations
- maledictions
- scurrilities
- dirty words
3.2. Curses and imprecations
Expressions invoking harm, punishment, or misfortune upon someone or something.
Synonyms
- curses
- imprecations
- maledictions
- execrations
Examples
- The villagers believed the ancient oaths carried powerful curses.
- He muttered bitter oaths against those who had betrayed him.
Related Words
- blessings
- condemnations
- profanity
- damnation
VERB
4. To make solemn pledges
To make a solemn promise or pledge to fulfill an obligation or commitment.
4.1. Making formal promises
To solemnly promise or pledge to do something or remain committed to a particular responsibility.
Synonyms
Examples
- The members oath to uphold the organization's principles.