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| swear [ swer ] (past swore [ swawr ], past participle sworn [ swawrn ], present participle swear·ing, 3rd person present singular swears) |
verb |
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| Definition: |
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1. transitive and intransitive verb affirm truth of something: to declare solemnly or forcefully that what is said is true, sometimes calling somebody or something thought to be sacred as a witness
  She swore on her mother's grave that she had done as she had been asked.
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2. transitive and intransitive verb solemnly promise something: to promise something very solemnly
He swore that he would serve humanity.
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3. intransitive verb use offensive word or words: to use blasphemous or obscene language, usually as an expression of strong feelings or with the intention of giving offense
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4. transitive and intransitive verb take oath: to make a formal promise in a court of law or when taking up an official position
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5. transitive and intransitive verb declare something on oath: to make a solemn statement under oath, especially in a court of law, or make somebody do this
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6. transitive verb make somebody make promise: to cause somebody to make a solemn promise to do something
We were sworn to secrecy.
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| [ Old English swerian< Indo-European] |
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| swear·er noun |
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