vow

The word “vow” means a solemn, formal promise, especially one made as part of a religious or ceremonial commitment. In plain terms, a serious promise, or the act of making one.

“Vow” is pronounced vow (/vaʊ/ in IPA).

Here is “vow” used in a sentence: “The couple exchanged wedding vows in front of their families.”

Depending on how it is used, “vow” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “vow” comes from Latin. From Old French vu, from Latin votum, "a promise, dedication" — a doublet of vote.

“Vow” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Vow” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a solemn, formal promise, especially one made as part of a religious or ceremonial commitment.

A vow is typically a solemn, formal commitment, often made in a religious or ceremonial context such as a wedding or monastic vow, while a promise can be far more casual and everyday, such as promising to call someone back. Vows generally carry greater weight and formality than ordinary promises.

Common examples include wedding vows, in which partners solemnly promise commitment to each other, and religious vows, such as vows of poverty or celibacy taken by clergy or monks. Both involve a formal, often public declaration of intent.

Yes, vow functions as a noun meaning a solemn promise, as in "wedding vows," and as a verb meaning to make such a promise, as in "she vowed to return." Both forms describe the same underlying idea of a serious, binding commitment.