verb
pledge
plehj
verb
1
To make a solemn promise to do something.
"The charity pledged to double its donations this year."
"He pledged his support for the campaign."
2
To hand something over as security for a loan or debt.
"She pledged her jewellery to secure the loan."
noun
1
A solemn promise.
"They made a pledge to stay in touch after graduation."
2
Something handed over as security or collateral.
"The watch was left as a pledge until the debt was repaid."
How to Use Pledge
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA firm promise, or an item handed over as a guarantee that a promise or debt will be honoured.
Common pairings
make a pledge
pledge allegiance
pledge support
Word Forms
pledged past tense, pledges plural, pledges singular
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The charity _____ to double its donations this year.
Etymology
From Old French plege, from Medieval Latin plevium, ultimately from a Frankish word meaning "to guarantee." Related to plight.