Noun

1. A solemn promise to perform some act, or behave in a specified manner, especially a promise to live and act in accordance with the rules of a religious order.

   The old hermit, up in the mountains, took a vow of silence.

2. A declaration or assertion.

Verb

1. To make a vow.
2. To declare publicly that one made a vow, usually to show one's determination or to announce an act of retaliation.

   The rebels vowed to continue their fight until they succeed.

Related terms

• vow of chastity
• vow of poverty
• vow of silence
• votive
• devote