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Vouchsafed: meaning, definitions and examples

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vouchsafed

 

[ ˈvaʊtʃˌseɪfd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

grant, assurance

To vouchsafe something means to grant it or to provide it as if out of kindness or favor. The term often conveys a sense of privilege or bestowing something important. It is used in formal or literary contexts when referring to a gift or assurance given by a person of higher status. The action of vouchsafing can also refer to making something known or revealing information. It is not commonly used in contemporary vernacular, often appearing in religious or historical texts.

Synonyms

bestow, confer, grant.

Examples of usage

  • The king vouchsafed his blessing to the marriage.
  • She vouchsafed her secrets only to her closest friends.
  • The document was vouchsafed to him as a token of trust.
  • He vouchsafed that the truth would come out eventually.

Etymology

The term 'vouchsafe' originates from the Middle English word 'vouchesafen,' which is a combination of 'voucher' meaning to assert or guarantee, and 'safe,' meaning to make sure or secure. The roots of 'voucher' can be traced back to the Latin word 'vocare,' meaning to call or to summon, while 'safe' comes from the Latin 'salvus,' meaning uninjured or whole. The usage of 'vouchsafe' has evolved over time, retaining its formal connotation and association with authority and privilege. Historically, it was often used in legal and religious texts to denote a granting or assurance that was seen as significant or noteworthy, emphasizing the hierarchical nature of such acts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,261, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.