Definition Definition

Pledge - Meaning and Examples

Meaning of 'Pledge' (Webster Dictionary)

1 . Pledge [ n.]
- The transfer of possession of personal property from a debtor to a creditor as security for a debt or engagement; also, the contract created between the debtor and creditor by a thing being so delivered or deposited, forming a species of bailment; also, that which is so delivered or deposited; something put in pawn.
- A person who undertook, or became responsible, for another; a bail; a surety; a hostage.
- A hypothecation without transfer of possession.
- Anything given or considered as a security for the performance of an act; a guarantee; as, mutual interest is the best pledge for the performance of treaties.
- A promise or agreement by which one binds one's self to do, or to refrain from doing, something; especially, a solemn promise in writing to refrain from using intoxicating liquors or the like; as, to sign the pledge; the mayor had made no pledges.
- A sentiment to which assent is given by drinking one's health; a toast; a health.
- To deposit, as a chattel, in pledge or pawn; to leave in possession of another as security; as, to pledge one's watch.
- To give or pass as a security; to guarantee; to engage; to plight; as, to pledge one's word and honor.
- To secure performance of, as by a pledge.
- To bind or engage by promise or declaration; to engage solemnly; as, to pledge one's self.
- To invite another to drink, by drinking of the cup first, and then handing it to him, as a pledge of good will; hence, to drink the health of; to toast.

Meaning of 'Pledge' (Princeton's WordNet)

1 . pledge [ n]
Meaning (1):
- a binding commitment to do or give or refrain from something
Example in sentence:
  • an assurance of help when needed;
  • signed a pledge never to reveal the secret
Meaning (2):
- a deposit of personal property as security for a debt
Example in sentence:
  • his saxophone was in pledge
3 . pledge [ v]
Meaning (3):
- give as a guarantee
Example in sentence:
  • I pledge my honor
Meaning (4):
- promise solemnly and formally
Example in sentence:
  • I pledge that I will honor my wife
Meaning (5):
- pay (an amount of money) as a contribution to a charity or service, especially at regular intervals
Example in sentence:
  • I pledged $10 a month to my favorite radio station
Meaning (6):
- bind or secure by a pledge
Example in sentence:
  • I was pledged to silence
Meaning (7):
- propose a toast to
Example in sentence:
  • Let us toast the birthday girl!;
  • Let's drink to the New Year