Meaning & use
Swear
Last updated
To make a solemn promise or declaration, often invoking something sacred; or, to use profane or offensive language.
See it in a sentence
She had to swear an oath before testifying in court.
He tends to swear loudly whenever he stubs his toe.
A note on using this word
The two main senses of 'swear,' making a solemn vow and using profanity, both trace back to the same Old English root meaning to make a formal declaration.
Words with a similar meaning
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Another way to use it
2. verb
To use profane, obscene, or blasphemous language.
The referee warned the player not to swear at the officials.
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