Vowed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vowed

[vaʊd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

making a promise

To vow is to make a solemn promise or commitment to do something. It is often associated with personal pledges, such as vows made during a wedding ceremony. When someone vows something, it signifies a strong intention and determination. The concept of a vow is prevalent in many cultures and is often considered a serious commitment.

Synonyms

commit, pledge, promise, swear.

Examples of usage

  • They vowed to support each other forever.
  • She vowed to improve her skills through practice.
  • He vowed to dedicate his life to helping others.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • In many cultures, people take vows during weddings, like promising to be loyal and to love each other forever.
  • Religious ceremonies often include vows, where individuals pledge to follow a particular faith or serve a higher purpose.
  • Vows are sometimes made during graduations or new job start dates, where individuals commit to personal or professional growth.

Literature

  • Literary works often depict characters who make vows, showcasing their determination and moral convictions.
  • Famous stories, such as Shakespeare's tragedies, feature vows that lead to both noble actions and tragic consequences.
  • Mythological tales frequently incorporate vows as a way to drive plot, revealing the strength of commitment and its impact on fate.

Psychology

  • Making a vow can strengthen resolve, as public commitments often lead to higher levels of accountability.
  • Research suggests that when individuals vocalize their vows, it creates a psychological bond that makes them more likely to stick to their commitments.
  • The act of vowing activates brain areas associated with reward, reinforcing the behavior that follows the promise.

Pop Culture

  • In popular TV shows and movies, vows are pivotal, often marking turning points in character relationships, like in romantic dramas.
  • Music albums feature songs that explore themes of love and promises, often focusing on the idea of vowed commitments in relationships.
  • The idea of taking vows has inspired various social movements, encouraging people to make commitments to social justice and change.

Origin of 'vowed'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the Latin word 'votum', which means a vow or promise, often in a religious context.
  • In Old French, the word 'veu' referred to a promise made to God, highlighting its deep roots in faith and commitment.
  • It has been used since the 14th century in English to express solemn commitments.

The word 'vow' originates from the Latin 'votum', meaning 'a vow, promise, or wish', which comes from the verb 'vovere', meaning 'to dedicate or to promise'. The transition from Latin to Old French, where it appeared as 'vot', eventually led to its adoption into Middle English as 'vow' in the 14th century. Throughout history, vows have been used in various contexts, particularly within religious and cultural ceremonies, emphasizing the importance of commitment and fidelity in human relationships. Vows are often heartfelt expressions of intention, held sacred across numerous traditions, encompassing marital promises and personal commitments alike. The emotional weight carried by vows has made them a fundamental aspect of societal bonds, establishing norms for loyalty and accountability.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,697, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.