Swear Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Swear, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Swear?

1\. To make a declaration of evidence under an oath in the court, confirming it to be an honest and truth declaration. 2) A promise made by a witness on a sacred thing or person (maybe god) to prove that whatever is said or done is truth and nothing but the truth. 3) Solemn pledge or oath taken by someone who is appointed on an official post, to do their duties honestly and diligently.4) Use of profane language as if cursing someone.

History and Meaning of Swear

Swearing is an act of making a solemn declaration of truth, typically in a legal context, under an oath or affirmation. The practice of swearing goes back thousands of years and has been used in various cultures and traditions to demonstrate the sincerity of a person's words. In legal contexts, swearing serves as a means of ensuring the veracity of a statement or testimony, as the person making the oath or affirmation is bound by the consequences of perjury if they are found to have lied.

Examples of Swear

  1. In a court of law, witnesses are typically required to swear an oath or affirmation before giving testimony. This involves making a solemn declaration that the evidence they are about to give will be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
  2. Public officials, such as judges, may be required to take an oath of office before assuming their duties. This involves swearing or affirming allegiance to the constitution and pledging to carry out their duties faithfully and impartially.
  3. Some religious traditions require adherents to swear oaths or vows as a sign of devotion or commitment. For example, members of some monastic orders may swear vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
  4. Swearing can also refer to the use of obscene or profane language in casual speech, typically as an expression of anger, frustration, or surprise.

Legal Terms Similar to Swear

  1. Affirmation - A solemn declaration to tell the truth, similar to an oath but without reference to a deity or religious concept.
  2. Perjury - The act of lying or giving false testimony under oath or affirmation.
  3. Deposition - A witness's testimony given under oath and recorded outside of court, typically in a lawyer's office, to be used as evidence in a lawsuit.