— covenantal /kuv'euh nan"tl/ , adj.
/kuv"euh neuhnt/ , n.
1. an agreement, usually formal, between two or more persons to do or not do something specified.
2. Law. an incidental clause in such an agreement.
3. Eccles. a solemn agreement between the members of a church to act together in harmony with the precepts of the gospel.
4. ( cap. ) Hist.
a. See National Covenant .
b. See Solemn League and Covenant .
5. Bible.
a. the conditional promises made to humanity by God, as revealed in Scripture.
b. the agreement between God and the ancient Israelites, in which God promised to protect them if they kept His law and were faithful to Him.
6. Law.
a. a formal agreement of legal validity, esp. one under seal.
b. an early English form of action in suits involving sealed contracts.
7. See Covenant of the League of Nations .
v.i.
8. to enter into a covenant.
v.t.
9. to promise by covenant; pledge.
10. to stipulate.
[ 1250-1300; ME covenir convenire to come together, agree; see -ANT ]
Syn. 1. treaty, pact, convention.