English Reference
noun

pact

n.
US /ˈpækt/ UK /pˈækt/ pact UK spelling pact's, pact's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a serious or formal agreement between two or more people or groups.

    a formal agreement, covenant, or compact between individuals or groups, often carrying a sense of solemnity or binding obligation.

    Simple

    The two friends made a pact to never let money come between them.

    In context

    The rival factions signed a non-aggression pact, promising to cease all hostilities while the diplomatic negotiations were ongoing.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    an agreement between different countries to work together, especially for protection.

    a formal alliance or coalition between nations, typically established for mutual defence or political cooperation.

    Simple

    Several nations joined the trade pact to make buying and selling goods easier.

    In context

    The regional security pact required all member states to contribute troops in the event of an unprovoked attack on any signatory nation.

The pact underpins $1.6tn in North American Trade.

BBC News· 25 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated