swear
Pronunciation: (swâr), [key] — v., swore sware sworn swear&syling.
—v.i. - to make a solemn declaration or affirmation by some sacred being or object, as a deity or the Bible.
- to bind oneself by oath.
- to give evidence or make a statement on oath.
- to use profane oaths or language: Don't swear in front of the children.
—v.t. - to declare, affirm, attest, etc., by swearing by a deity, some sacred object, etc.
- to affirm, assert, or say with solemn earnestness.
- to promise or undertake on oath or in a solemn manner; vow.
- to testify or state on oath: He swore it on the witness stand.
- to take (an oath), as in order to give solemnity or force to a declaration, promise, etc.
- to bind by an oath: to swear someone to secrecy.
- He swears by his dentist.
- to name (a sacred being or thing) as one's witness or guarantee in swearing.
- Informal.to have great confidence in; rely on:He swears by his dentist.
- to have certain knowledge of:I thought I saw him leaving, but I couldn't swear by it.
- to admit to office or service by administering an oath: A new president will be sworn in today.
- to promise or resolve to give up something, esp. intoxicating beverages.
- to secure (a warrant for arrest) by making an accusation under oath.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.