pledge
pledge Lexical Profile
pledge Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A solemn promise, undertaking, or binding commitment to do or refrain from doing something.
"The mayor made a public pledge to improve the city's public transportation system."
Something given as a security for the fulfillment of a contract or the payment of a debt, which is liable to forfeiture in the event of failure.
"He left his antique pocket watch with the lender as a pledge until he could repay the loan."
North American A prospective member who has been accepted on a probationary basis into a college fraternity or sorority prior to formal initiation.
"Every new pledge was required to learn the history and founding principles of the fraternity."
• verb
To commit or promise solemnly by a formal vow or undertaking (often concerning money, support, or loyalty).
"Several local businesses have pledged generous donations to help fund the new community library."
To deposit or offer an asset as collateral or security for the fulfillment of a contract or the payment of a debt.
"The company had to pledge its real estate holdings as security in order to obtain the emergency bank loan."
North American To join or promise to join a college fraternity or sorority as a probationary member.
"During his freshman year, he decided to pledge the same fraternity that his father had joined decades earlier."
• Rhymes for pledge
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in Middle English from Old French 'plege' (meaning 'hostage' or 'security'), which derived from Medieval Latin 'plebium' and ultimately from a Frankish root related to Old English 'pleoh' (danger or responsibility).