forswear
UK: fɔːˈsweə | US: fɔːrˈswer
vt. to renounce or reject something under oath
vt. to swear falsely; commit perjury
vi. (archaic) to swear falsely or break an oath
The word "forswear" originates from Old English forswerian, combining the prefix for- (meaning "away" or "against," often implying negation or prohibition) and swerian ("to swear"). The prefix for- here intensifies the act of swearing, giving it a negative or reversing connotation—essentially "to swear against" one's previous oath. Over time, it evolved to mean both "to renounce solemnly" and "to swear falsely," reflecting the dual nature of breaking an oath either by abandonment or deceit.
The knight was forced to forswear his allegiance to the fallen king.
Witnesses who forswear themselves in court face severe penalties.
She refused to forswear her principles, even under pressure.
In the tale, the wizard forswore his dark magic to seek redemption.
Never forswear an oath lightly, as it may haunt your conscience.