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Foresworn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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foresworn

[ˌfɔrˈswɔrn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

previous oath

Foresworn refers to someone who has broken a vow or an oath. This term is often used in literary or formal contexts to describe a person who has betrayed a promise or commitment, indicating a deep sense of dishonor. Such individuals are seen as untrustworthy and disloyal, having once pledged allegiance or fidelity but now acting in a way that contradicts that pledge.

Synonyms

betrayed, dishonored, renounced, unfaithful.

Examples of usage

  • The knight was deemed foresworn for abandoning his post.
  • She felt foresworn after breaking her promise to her friend.
  • A foresworn ally is often the most dangerous foe.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many stories and epic poems, characters who are foresworn face dire consequences for not keeping their vows.
  • Classic literature often uses this term to highlight the themes of betrayal and the weight of promises made.

Psychology

  • Research shows that when people make a commitment, like being foresworn, they often feel a greater pressure to follow through.
  • The emotional weight of an oath can lead to guilt and anxiety if broken, indicating how deep such promises run in human psychology.

History

  • Throughout history, leaders and warriors would foreswear alliances to avoid conflicts, showcasing the importance of loyalty.
  • In medieval times, being foresworn could lead to social ostracism, showing how integrity was valued.

Religion

  • Many religious texts discuss the importance of keeping vows, with foresworn individuals often facing moral or spiritual repercussions.
  • In some belief systems, breaking a vow is seen as a severe sin, reinforcing the weight of being foresworn.

Origin of 'foresworn'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from a combination of 'fore' meaning 'before' and 'sworn', which means to have made a serious promise or oath.
  • The concept of swearing or taking an oath has ancient roots, often linked to serious commitments in many cultures.

The term 'foresworn' combines the prefix 'fore-', meaning 'before' or 'in advance', with 'sworn', the past participle of 'swear'. Its origins trace back to the Old English word 'forsworian', which meant to 'deny upon oath' or 'to swear falsely'. This word was derived from the Proto-Germanic '*furswerwōną', which emphasizes an action taken against an oath. As language evolved through Middle English, it was recorded as 'foresworen', continuing to reflect themes of betrayal and commitment. Over centuries, the nuanced connotation of foresworn has been utilized in literature to illustrate moral dilemmas and the consequences of broken vows.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,179, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.