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Added 7 October 2026

avow

/əˈvaʊ/ verb

In Latin: profiteor Wiktionary

verb Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about avow at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

To declare openly and boldly, as something believed to be right; to own, acknowledge or confess frankly.
To bind or devote by a vow.
To acknowledge and justify, as an act done. See avowry.

Origin

From Middle English avowen, from Old French avouer, from Latin advocare (“to call to, call upon, hence to call as a witness, defender, patron, or advocate”), from ad (“to”) + vocare (“to call”). Doublet of advoke, avouch, and advocate. Not related to vow.

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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