solemn vow

noun

, Roman Catholic Church.

1. a perpetual, irrevocable public vow taken by a religious, in which property may not be owned by the individual, and marriage is held invalid under canon law.

Word History and Origins

Origin of solemn vow¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

Somewhat coyly, Skidmore admits that “Richard was to break this solemn vow in spectacular style.”

From The Daily Beast

If they marry, for instance, they have departed from a high purpose, but have broken no solemn vow.

From Project Gutenberg

He was in excellent hands, training to a noble work, under a venerable priest, and in conformity to a solemn vow.

From Project Gutenberg

Her solemn vow, her judicious repetitions, her whole phraseology, evince this prevailing disposition.

From Project Gutenberg

I want you to keep your solemn vow that you would make me your wife; and—and delays are dangerous.

From Project Gutenberg

He bore the external signs of an infirm magician, while his face was hidden in a cloth to mark the imposition of a solemn vow.

From Project Gutenberg