# avow

> English word · Verb · IPA /əˈvaʊ/

## Definitions
1. To declare openly and boldly, as something believed to be right; to own, acknowledge or confess frankly.
2. To bind or devote by a vow.
3. To acknowledge and justify, as an act done. See avowry.

## Etymology
From Middle English avowen, from Old French avouer, from Latin advocare (“to call to, call upon, hence to call as a witness, defender, patron, or advocate”), from ad (“to”) + vocare (“to call”). Doublet of advoke, avouch, and advocate. Not related to vow.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/avow