/ohth/ , n. , pl. oaths /ohdhz, ohths/ .
1. a solemn appeal to a deity, or to some revered person or thing, to witness one's determination to speak the truth, to keep a promise, etc.: to testify upon oath.
2. a statement or promise strengthened by such an appeal.
3. a formally affirmed statement or promise accepted as an equivalent of an appeal to a deity or to a revered person or thing; affirmation.
4. the form of words in which such a statement or promise is made.
5. an irreverent or blasphemous use of the name of God or anything sacred.
6. any profane expression; curse; swearword: He slammed the door with a muttered oath.
7. take an oath , to swear solemnly; vow.
[ bef. 900; ME ooth, OE ath; c. G Eid ]
Syn. 2. vow, pledge. 5. profanity.