swear
verb (used without object)
to make a solemn declaration or affirmation by some sacred being or object, as a deity or the Bible.
had sworn
-
past perfectof swear.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Joshua Hargrove had sworn off leafy greens, berries and just about anything else that grew in the ground.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 2, 2026
McSweeney denied reports he had sworn at the top civil servant at the Foreign Office while asking him to approve the appointment.
From BBC ● Apr. 28, 2026
It was considered a symbol of the "Ashes" he had sworn to win back.
From Barron's ● Nov. 16, 2025
In a statement Tuesday, Attorney General Merrick Garland condemned the “heinous attack on citizens they had sworn an oath to protect.”
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 19, 2024
He had sworn this once when he and Adrastus had quarreled and Eriphyle had reconciled them.
From "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton
