oath

[oʊθ]

Origin

Old English "āþ", from Proto-Germanic "*aiþaz"

Definitions

1. A solemn promise or declaration, often invoking a divine witness
2. A profane or blasphemous expression; a curse or swear word

Examples

• The president took an oath of office during the inauguration ceremony.
• Doctors must take the Hippocratic oath before practicing medicine.
• He made an oath to always protect his family.
• The witness took an oath to tell the truth in court.

Word Forms

• Plural: oaths
• Related verb: swear
• Related adjective: sworn

Synonyms

• vow
• pledge
• promise
• affirmation
• covenant

Word Family

• oath-bound: bound by an oath
• oath-breaking: violating an oath
• oath-taking: the act of making an oath

Memory Tips

1. Think "O-A-TH" as "Official Agreement To be Honest"
2. Associated with formal ceremonies where people raise their right hand
3. Remember common phrases like "take an oath" or "under oath"
4. Connect to important real-life situations: court testimony, marriage vows, presidential inauguration

Usage Notes

• More formal than "promise"
• Often used in legal or ceremonial contexts
• Frequently collocates with verbs like "take," "make," "break," "swear"