Meaning & Definition of word "Swear"

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.