WordGarden.iooath
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈəʊθ/
US
- /ˈoʊθ/
Meanings
Noun
a solemn promise or formal spoken declaration, especially in legal or official settings
a swear word or forceful exclamation
Beyond the definition
An oath isn't just any promise; it's a very serious one, usually made in a formal moment, like in court, when starting public office, or when joining the military. It often includes a promise to tell the truth, do your duty, or stay loyal to a cause or set of rules. In some cases, it calls on God or something sacred as a witness, but it can also be made in a non-religious way. Breaking an oath is seen as a serious matter because it means you failed to keep a public and important promise.
An oath is a solemn promise, typically invoking a deity or something held sacred as a guarantee of truthfulness or sincerity. Historically, oaths were deeply rooted in religious belief and legal systems, serving as a way to bind individuals to commitments and ensure accountability. Think of the ancient Greeks swearing by Zeus, or medieval knights pledging fealty to their lord—these were oaths meant to be unbreakable.
Today, we still use oaths in many formal settings. Witnesses in court swear an oath to tell "the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth." New government officials take an oath of office, promising to uphold the Constitution and faithfully execute their duties. Even joining certain organizations might require taking an oath to abide by its rules and principles.
The power of an oath lies in its seriousness and in the belief that breaking it can bring consequences—whether legal, social, or spiritual. It's a public declaration meant to show deep commitment.
However, "oath" can also be used more figuratively. You might say someone "took an oath of silence," meaning they promised not to reveal a secret. Or you could describe a politician as being "bound by their oath," emphasizing the moral obligation they have to fulfill their promises. In a more literary or historical context, an "oath" can also refer to a profane or blasphemous expression—a swear word—stemming from the idea of taking a sacred name in vain.
So whether it's a formal legal pledge, a personal vow, or a historical call to witness, an oath represents a powerful commitment—a promise made with deep sincerity and often witnessed by something greater than oneself.
Examples
- 1
Court testimony
The witness took an oath before answering the lawyer's questions.
- 2
Court statement
She was under oath when she gave her statement.
- Phraseunder oath
in court, after formally promising to tell the truth
- 3
Official ceremony
The new president took the oath of office in January.
- Phraseoath of office
formal promise made when starting an official job
- 4
Secret promise
He swore an oath to protect the secrets of the group.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Moral duty
She felt bound by her oath and refused to discuss the case.
- Phrasebound by an oath
morally or legally required to keep it
- 6
Community rules
Breaking an oath carried serious consequences in their community.
- 7
Old-fashioned swearing
In the old novel, the sailor shouted a string of angry oaths.
- Usageoaths
old-fashioned word for swear words
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- casual promise
- perjury
Used with (collocations)
- take an oath
- under oath
- oath of office
- break an oath
Word family
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Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- oathnoun
Forms
- oathspluralnoun