avowal

[ uh-vou-uhl ]

/ əˈvaʊ əl /

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noun

an open statement of affirmation; frank acknowledgment or admission.

QUIZ

WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?

Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!

Question 1 of 7

Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.

Origin of avowal

First recorded in 1720–30; avow + -al²

pre·a·vow·al, nounre·a·vow·al, noun

Another avowal: He had not originally planned to assault that Jewish school in Toulouse.
New Laws Pushed by Nicolas Sarkozy After Toulouse Massacre Go Too Far|Barry Lando|March 24, 2012|DAILY BEAST
The fact was, that Mr. Giles had not at first been able to bring his mind to the avowal, that he had only shot a boy.
Oliver Twist, Vol. II (of 3)|Charles Dickens
It was several years after their acquaintance commenced before M. Roland made an avowal of his attachment.
Madame Roland, Makers of History|John S. C. Abbott
"The time will come," said Winston dryly, to hide what he felt, for his comrade's simple avowal had been wonderfully eloquent.
Winston of the Prairie|Harold Bindloss

Mr. Ripper's logic tended to the belief that he could not be punished if he stuck to the avowal of having seen nothing.
Elster's Folly|Mrs. Henry Wood
Somewhat confused by this humiliating avowal, Madame Bodard returned to her place at a faro-table.
Catherine de' Medici|Honore de Balzac