Avow (&unr_;), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Avowed (&unr_;); p. pr. & vb. n. Avowing.] [F. avouver, fr. L. advocare to call to (whence the meanings, to call upon as superior; recognize as lord, own, confess); ad + vocare to call. See Advocate, Avouch.] 1. To declare openly, as something believed to be right; to own or acknowledge frankly; as, a man avows his principles or his crimes.
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Which I to be the of Israel's God
Avow, and challenge Dagon to the test. Milton.
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2. (Law) To acknowledge and justify, as an act done. See Avowry. Blackstone.
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Syn. -- To acknowledge; own; confess. See Confess.
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Avow, v. t. & i. [OF. avouer, fr. LL. votare to vow, fr. L. votun. See Vote, n.] To bind, or to devote, by a vow. [Obs.] Wyclif.
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