perjure
UK: ˈpɜːdʒə(r) | US: ˈpɜːrdʒər
vt. to willfully tell a lie while under oath or in a sworn statement
vt. (reflexive) to make oneself guilty of perjury (e.g., "perjure oneself")
The word perjure originates from Latin periūrāre ("to swear falsely"), combining per- (intensifying "thoroughly") and iūrāre ("to swear"). It entered Middle English via Old French parjurer, retaining the sense of violating an oath. The morphemes reflect the act of "swearing through" (i.e., deceitfully bypassing truth).
Witnesses who perjure themselves in court face severe penalties.
The politician was accused of attempting to perjure during the hearing.
Never perjure, as honesty upholds justice.
The lawyer warned his client not to perjure under any circumstances.
Historical records show that those who perjured often lost public trust.