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DictionarypledgeSolemn promise
noun / verb

pledge

PLEJ/plˈɛdʒ/

A solemn promise or commitment.

The man makes an earnest pledge with one hand over his heart.

An older man makes a solemn personal pledge to an older woman, placing one hand over his heart while clasping her hand and maintaining earnest eye contact.
Etymology
pledgeOld Frenchhostage, security, bail

Old French plege meant security or bail—a guarantee that an obligation would be met. A solemn promise became a pledge when a person's word itself was treated as that security.

In context

TED1:57
When visitors come to Palau, they must all sign an environmental pledge, which is stamped into their passport as their visa.
Children of Palau: Leave only footprints that will wash away | TED Countdown

More examples

  • The volunteers pledge to keep the beach clean.
  • She keeps her pledge never to share confidential information.
  • Local businesses have pledged money to rebuild the library.

Forms

pledge · pledges · pledged · pledging

Similar words

promise
A broader term that can be casual or solemn.
vow
Often emphasizes a deeply personal or religious commitment.
oath
Typically involves swearing formally, sometimes invoking a sacred authority.