sworn
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //swɔrn//
KK: /swɔrn/
adjective
Definition
Having made a serious promise or commitment, often in a formal or legal context.
Example
He is a sworn officer of the law, dedicated to serving and protecting the community.
Conversation
Did you hear about Jake? He’s now a sworn officer in the city police.
Wow, that's impressive! I always knew he wanted to help people.
Yeah, he even had to take a big oath as a sworn official.
That makes sense. I bet he's really proud of that commitment!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
avowed
pledged
affirmed
Antonyms
unofficial
disavowed
renounced
verb
Definition
To have made a serious promise or statement, often with an oath or under penalty of law.
Example
He had sworn to tell the truth in court.
Tense Forms
Past: swore
Past Participle: sworn
Conversation
I thought you had sworn to never eat junk food again?
I did, but then I saw those fries and couldn't resist.
That's hilarious! I can't believe you broke your promise.
Root Explanation
Sworn is the past participle of 'swear', which comes from Old English 'sweoran' (meaning to affirm or take an oath). The word 'sworn' indicates that someone has made a solemn promise or taken an oath.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who has 'affirmed' something seriously — that's what 'sworn' means, as it relates to making a solemn promise.
Visually Confused Words
worn
sorn
unsworn
seaworn
swoon
shorn
scorn