avow
UK: əˈvaʊ | US: əˈvaʊ
vt. to declare openly or admit something frankly
vt. to acknowledge or affirm a belief or allegiance
avow = a<to, toward> + vow<solemn promise>
- a (prefix): From Old French a- (Latin ad-), meaning "to" or "toward."
- vow (root): From Old French vou, Latin votum, meaning "a solemn promise or pledge."
Etymology Origin:
The word avow traces back to the 13th century, derived from Old French avouer (to acknowledge or confess), which itself stems from Latin advocare (to call to witness). The prefix a- intensifies the root vow, emphasizing a public or formal declaration. Over time, avow evolved to signify openly admitting or affirming something, often with moral or legal weight.
She refused to avow her involvement in the scandal.
The politician avowed his commitment to environmental reforms.
He avowed his loyalty to the king despite the risks.
The witness avowed the truth of his statement under oath.
They avowed their love for each other in front of family and friends.