Promise

/ˈprɒmɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A declaration or assurance that one will do something or that a particular thing will happen.
She made a promise to finish the project by the end of the week.
An indication of future success or potential.
The young athlete shows great promise for the future.
verb
To assure someone that one will definitely do something.
He promised to call her as soon as he arrived.
To give ground for a promise or to indicate that something will happen.
The weather report promises sunny skies for the weekend.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'promesse', from Latin 'promissum'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

keep a promise
To fulfill a commitment made to someone.
make a promise
To give one's word to do something.
broken promise
A failure to fulfill a commitment.

Related Words

promisee
The person to whom a promise is made.
promisor
The person who makes a promise.

Slang Meanings

A guarantee to do something, often used informally.
I promise, I’ll be there.
A way of saying that something is likely to happen.
The weather looks promising for the picnic.