26984 words

oath

8 definitions • 9 examples
1
a promise, especially that you will tell the truth in a law court:

Examples:

Medieval knights took an oath of allegiance/loyalty to their lord.
The witness placed her hand on the Bible and took the oath (= promised to tell the truth).
2
to have formally promised to tell the truth:

Examples:

The judge reminded the witness that she was under oath.
3
an offensive word, especially one that uses a name for God:
4
a serious promise that you will tell the truth or that you will do what you have said:

Examples:

Presidents take an oath to uphold the Constitution.
5
an offensive word, esp. one that uses a name for God
6
an official promise, especially when you promise to tell the truth in court:

Examples:

The witness took the oath.
A psychologist cannot be compelled to attend a disciplinary hearing or to swear on oath.
7
having officially promised to tell the truth in court:

Examples:

She was called to testify under oath before a congressional panel.
8
to accept a job in a government, especially in the US, in a ceremony which requires you to make an official promise to serve your country:

Examples:

The newly-elected Democrat took the oath of office in the Senate yesterday and quickly introduced his first bill.

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