# oath

/ˈoʊθ/ (US) · /ˈəʊθ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/oath
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. a formal promise

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

a serious promise to tell the truth or do a job honestly, often made in public or in court.

For teachers: a solemn attestation of truth or a pledge of future conduct, typically involving a formal ceremony or legal setting.

- The witness had to take an oath to tell the whole truth before the trial started.
- Before assuming his duties, the newly elected official took a formal oath of office, swearing to uphold the constitution and serve the public interest.

### 2. a swear word

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary · Archaic

a rude or offensive word used when someone is angry.

For teachers: a profane or offensive expression; a curse word used to express strong emotion.

- He let out a loud oath when he accidentally dropped the heavy box on his foot.
- The sailor muttered a string of angry oaths under his breath as the storm battered the ship's hull.

Usage: In modern English, 'curse' or 'swear word' is much more common than 'oath' for this meaning.

Teaching tip: This sense is largely literary or archaic; modern speakers rarely use 'oath' to mean a swear word in everyday conversation.

## Examples

- The witness took an oath to tell the truth.
- Before testifying in the trial, the witness had to swear an oath to provide an honest account of the events.
- The newly elected president stood before the crowd to recite the oath of office, pledging to protect the constitution and serve the public interest faithfully.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.