noun
Common
pact
pakt
Pact (noun) means a formal agreement between two or more people, groups, or nations. Example: “The two countries signed a non-aggression pact.”
noun
1
A formal agreement between two or more people, groups, or nations.
"The two countries signed a non-aggression pact."
"The friends made a pact to meet up every year."
"The neighbours made a pact to look after each other's houses on holiday."
How to use pact
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA deal or promise that two or more sides commit to honouring.
Common pairings
sign a pact
suicide pact
break a pact
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Word forms
- Plural
- pacts
- Third person singular
- pacts
- Past tense
- pacted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The two countries signed a non-aggression _____.
Etymology
From Latin pactum, "something agreed upon," from the verb pacisci, "to agree."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for pact
See all rhymes for pact →Frequently asked questions
What does “pact” mean?
The word “pact” means a formal agreement between two or more people, groups, or nations. In plain terms, a deal or promise that two or more sides commit to honouring.
How do you pronounce “pact”?
“Pact” is pronounced pakt (/pækt/ in IPA).
How do you use “pact” in a sentence?
Here is “pact” used in a sentence: “The two countries signed a non-aggression pact.”
What is another word for “pact”?
Words with a similar meaning to “pact” include accord, agreement, bond, compact, concord and convention.
What part of speech is “pact”?
“Pact” is a noun.
Where does the word “pact” come from?
The word “pact” comes from Latin. From Latin pactum, "something agreed upon," from the verb pacisci, "to agree.".
Is “pact” a common word?
“Pact” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between a pact and a treaty?
A pact is a formal agreement between two or more people, groups, or nations, and the term can apply to agreements of varying scope, from a personal promise to a major international arrangement. A treaty is a specific type of pact that is a formal, legally binding agreement typically between nations, often more official and documented than a general pact.
Can a pact be made between individuals rather than nations?
Yes, a pact can be a formal agreement between individuals or small groups, such as a suicide pact or a pact between friends, not just between larger organizations or countries.
What is the difference between a pact and a contract?
A pact is a formal agreement that can be informal in its enforceability, while a contract is typically a legally binding agreement with specific terms that can be enforced in court. A pact between friends, for example, usually relies on trust rather than legal enforcement.
