What does vow mean?
A vow is a solemn promise, particularly one made formally, religiously, or as a serious personal commitment. The word carries a stronger sense of obligation and seriousness than an ordinary promise, so people use it for promises made with an oath, before witnesses, or under the authority of faith. As a noun, a vow can refer to the commitment itself, as in exchanging marriage vows or breaking a vow. As a verb, vow means to promise solemnly that one will do something or refrain from doing it. The word also has a ceremonial register and often suggests endurance or sacrifice rather than a casual intention. Vow belongs to the same historical family as vote and related terms such as votive and votary, all connected with the idea of a declared wish, commitment, or choice.
A solemn or formal promise, especially one made with an oath or in a religious context; a serious personal commitment.
"He kept his vow to care for his family."
Common collocations include make a vow, exchange vows, and break a vow. The noun is usually more formal and solemn than promise.
To promise solemnly or formally to do something or to refrain from doing something.
"She vowed never to speak of the incident."
This use often implies a binding moral, religious, or ceremonial commitment.
The plural is commonly used for marriage or ceremonial promises, as in exchange vows.
"The newlyweds repeated their vows during the ceremony."
A vow is a promise with gravity: it suggests that the speaker is binding themselves not only in words but in conscience, tradition, or faith.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does vow come from?
The English word derives through Old French vou from Latin votum, meaning a vow, wish, or solemn declaration. Latin votum developed from the idea of a wish or prayer offered formally. English initially used the word for a solemn promise, especially in religious and ceremonial settings, while vote, votive, and votary are related English words ultimately connected with the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How vow is actually used
A vow is generally more formal and solemn than a promise. It is common in religious, ceremonial, and legal contexts and can imply a binding moral commitment.
Easily confused with vow
A vow is a solemn promise, whereas a vote is a formal choice or decision, as in an election.