English · Word Candidate

pledge

/plɛd͡ʒ/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: pledges · pledging · pledged

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To make a solemn promise (to do something).

Verb

Examples

pledge allegiance to the flag

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To deposit something as a security; to pawn.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

A solemn promise to do something.

Noun

Examples

Mr. Biden unveiled the pledge at a White House climate summit for world leaders, declaring that the United States is ready to reclaim a leadership role on climate change.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

A solemn promise to do something. — A promise to abstain from drinking alcohol.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “pledge” mean?

To make a solemn promise (to do something).

Is “pledge” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.