verb · C2

Avow

uh-VOW/əˈvaʊ/

To avow is to declare something openly and firmly (formal): avow an error, openly avowed. To declare and to assert (already in the dictionary) are everyday and firm statement; to recant (already in the dictionary) is to withdraw a former claim — the contrast. To dissemble (already in the dictionary) is to hide true feeling. Corridor heat is not a record.

Meaning

To declare something openly and firmly (formal).

Examples

“Avow the missing date in the minutes; corridor heat is not a record.”
“Declare is official announcement (already in B1). Assert is to state firmly (already in C1). Recant is to withdraw a claim (already in C2) — the contrast. Dissemble is to hide feeling (already in C2). An awkward sentence in the minutes can still be exact. An anecdote that never states the cell is a hole. Put the number on the table; then the wine.”

Good to know

Declare openly (formal). Everyday: declare / admit (already in this dictionary). Close: assert (already in C1). Contrast: recant (withdraw — already in C2); dissemble (hide — already in C2). Heat ≠ a minute.

Near in meaning

declare, affirm, assert, profess

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