Meaning & Definition of word "Swear"
to
Swear
/swɛər/
noun:
- 1. an oath or a promise.
- Example: He gave his swear to uphold the laws of the country.
verb:
- 1. to make a solemn promise or oath.
- Example: He swore to tell the truth in court.
- 2. to use profane or offensive language.
- Example: She swore loudly when she stubbed her toe.
- 3. to affirm or assure with a strong promise.
- Example: I swear I didn’t take your book.
Etymology
Middle English swearen, from Old English swerian, related to Latin 'suadere', meaning to advise.
Common Phrases and Expressions
swear by:
To be completely confident in something.
swear off:
To formally reject or renounce something.
swear to God:
To emphasize the truthfulness of one's statement.
Related Words
oath:
A solemn promise regarding one's future actions.
curse:
A wish of misfortune upon someone.
vow:
A solemn promise.
Slang Meanings of swear
Meaning: To seriously emphasize a statement.
Example Sentence: I swear on my mother's grave!
Meaning: To use strong language that may be offensive.
Example Sentence: He swore a lot during the argument.