rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryassertFirm statement
verb

assert

uh-SERT/əˈsɜːrt/

To present or uphold something firmly as valid.

She asserts that the figures are correct and offers the original records.

A young adult woman states her point firmly and confidently to an older woman across a small table, using steady eye contact, upright posture, and a restrained open-hand gesture.
Etymology
asLatinto, toward
+sertLatinto join together

The Latin pieces combine “to” with “join together” in a verb meaning “lay claim to.” That notion of claiming underlies firmly declaring something to be true.

In context

ORCA Media44:14
you can't be put on trial or put to the test about your religious beliefs you simply assert them
Spotlight on Vermont Issues: Religious Freedom

More examples

  • The workers asserted their right to fair treatment.
  • He needs to assert himself during negotiations.
  • The new manager is asserting her authority.

Forms

assert · asserts · asserted · asserting

Similar words

claim
States something without necessarily the same firmness.
affirm
Confirms positively rather than necessarily defending a challenged position.