swear
Swear (verb) means to make a solemn promise or formal declaration, often under oath. Example: “The witness had to swear to tell the truth before testifying.”
How to use swear
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo promise very seriously, or to curse using bad language — two very different senses of the same word.
Context tells the two meanings apart: "I swear it's true" (promising) versus "stop swearing" (cursing).
Word forms
swearer comparative, more swear comparative, swore past tense, sware past tense, sworn past tense, sweared past tense, swears plural, swears plural, swears singular, swears singular, swearest superlative, most swear superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The witness had to _____ to tell the truth before testifying.
Etymology
From Old English swerian, meaning "to take an oath," from a Proto-Germanic root related to speaking or declaring. The meaning shifted in Middle English to also cover cursing, partly because using strong language was seen as similar to swearing false or careless oaths.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for swear
See all rhymes for swear →Frequently asked questions
What does “swear” mean?
The word “swear” means to make a solemn promise or formal declaration, often under oath. In plain terms, to promise very seriously, or to curse using bad language — two very different senses of the same word.
How do you pronounce “swear”?
“Swear” is pronounced SWEH-uh (/ˈswɛɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “swear” in a sentence?
Here is “swear” used in a sentence: “The witness had to swear to tell the truth before testifying.”
What is another word for “swear”?
Words with a similar meaning to “swear” include blaspheme, curse, curse like a pagan, curse like a trooper, curse like a sailor and cuss.
What is the opposite of “swear”?
The opposite of “swear” — its antonyms — is mind one's language.
What part of speech is “swear”?
“Swear” is a verb.
Where does the word “swear” come from?
The word “swear” comes from Old English.
Is “swear” a common word?
“Swear” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between the two meanings of 'swear'?
'Swear' has two very different senses. The formal one means to make a solemn promise or take an oath, as in 'swear to tell the truth.' The informal one means to use offensive or crude language. Same word, but context and tone make clear which meaning applies.
What does it mean to swear an oath?
To swear an oath is to make a formal, binding promise, often calling on something sacred or on your own honour as a guarantee. People swear oaths in court to tell the truth, when taking public office, or on joining certain professions. It signals serious, solemn commitment.
What is the difference between 'swear' and 'vow'?
Both mean to make a solemn promise, and they often overlap. 'Swear' tends to suggest a formal declaration or oath, frequently in legal or official settings. A 'vow' feels more personal or ceremonial, like the vows exchanged at a wedding. The commitment is similar; the setting differs.
What is an example of 'swear' meaning to promise?
You might say 'I swear I'll pay you back,' giving your word as a guarantee, or 'witnesses swear to tell the truth' before testifying in court. In both cases 'swear' turns an ordinary statement into a solemn, binding pledge that the speaker is expected to honour.
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