Word of the Day
Word
Affirm (v.)
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Difficulty
C — Levels range from A to J. What is my level?
Definition
To assert positively, declare, aver, allege, pronounce, maintain to be true.
Details
AFFIRM is from the Latin AD, to, and FIRMARE, to make firm. The Latin FIRMARE is the source also of the adjective INFIRM, literally not firm, weak, decrepit, feeble, usually because of age. ASSERT, AFFIRM, and SWEAR TO, all mean to state definitely. To ASSERT is to state with a self-confidence which borders on egotism, often with no actual proof. To AFFIRM is to state more solemnly; but the word does not suggest invoking the name of God as does to SWEAR TO. To 13 percent of elementary school students to AFFIRM incorrectly means to DENY, declare not to be true, the exact opposite of the correct meaning, declare to be true. Listen
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