promise

¹prom·ise

noun \ˈprä-məs\

Definition of PROMISE

1

a : a declaration that one will do or refrain from doing something specified

b : a legally binding declaration that gives the person to whom it is made a right to expect or to claim the performance or forbearance of a specified act

2

: reason to expect something <little promise of relief>; especially : ground for expectation of success, improvement, or excellence <shows considerable promise>

3

: something that is promised

Examples of PROMISE

1. She gave me her promise.
2. She never made a promise that she didn't intend to keep.
3. There is little promise of relief in the forecast.
4. They were attracted by the promise of success.
5. a sunny morning that gives every promise of a fine day
6. There is a promise of better days ahead.

Origin of PROMISE

Middle English promis, from Latin promissum, from neuter of promissus, past participle of promittere to send forth, promise, from pro- forth + mittere to send

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to PROMISE

Synonyms

oath, pledge, troth, vow, word

Related Words

appointment, arrangement, commitment, engagement, obligation; agreement, compact, contract, covenant; assurance, guarantee, guaranty, undertaking; bail, bond, deposit, gage, pawn, security, token, warranty

Rhymes with PROMISE

shammes, shamus

²promise

verb

prom·isedprom·is·ing

Definition of PROMISE

transitive verb

1

: to pledge to do, bring about, or provide <promise aid>

2

archaic : warrant, assure

3

chiefly dialect : betroth

4

: to suggest beforehand : give promise of <dark clouds promise rain>

intransitive verb

1

: to make a promise

2

: to give ground for expectation : be imminent

— prom·is·ee \ˌprä-mə-ˈsē\ noun

— prom·i·sor \-ˈsȯr\ also prom·is·er \ˈprä-mə-sər\ noun

Examples of PROMISE

1. Promise me that you won't tell anyone.
2. I can't promise you that I'll be able to go, but I'll do my best.
3. The governor promised that the prisoners would receive a fair trial.
4. She promised to announce the results tomorrow.
5. International organizations have promised aid.
6. I promise to be careful.
7. You always promise, but you never do what you say you will.
8. “I won't tell anyone.” “Promise?” “Yes, I promise.”
9. Those gray skies promise rain.

First Known Use of PROMISE

15th century

Related to PROMISE

Synonyms

covenant, pledge, swear, vow, give one's word

Related Words

affiance, betroth, plight, troth; accede, agree, assent, consent; contract, engage, ensure, guarantee, undertake; affirm, assert, aver, avouch, avow, declare, insist, warrant