covenant

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/ˈkʌvənənt/
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A solemn binding agreement or promise, especially in law and religion, with a formal verb use for entering or making that promise.

Examples

  • Scholars debate how the covenant language works in the text.
  • Both parties signed the covenant in front of witnesses.
  • They covenanted with one another before witnesses.
  • The agreement contained a covenant not to compete.
  • The community renewed its covenant during the ceremony.

Similar words

undertake
alliance
pact
promise
compact
compact
undertaking
pledge
agree
bond

Meanings

Formal binding agreement

noun
law
formal
A solemn agreement, promise, or clause that binds people, organizations, or property owners to do or not do something.

Examples

  • The lease includes a restrictive covenant about building heights.
  • The developer breached a covenant in the property deed.
  • The agreement contained a covenant not to compete.
  • Both parties signed the covenant in front of witnesses.
  • The lender required a financial covenant in the loan documents.
  • Local authorities enforced the housing covenant.

Similar words

Sacred pact with God

noun
religion
neutral
A sacred agreement or relationship between God and a person, people, or community, especially in Jewish and Christian scripture.

Examples

  • The Noahic covenant is linked with the sign of the rainbow.
  • The Abrahamic covenant shapes much of the biblical story.
  • The sermon contrasted the old covenant and the new covenant.
  • The community renewed its covenant during the ceremony.
  • Scholars debate how the covenant language works in the text.
  • The hymn speaks of a covenant of mercy.

Similar words

Promise by formal agreement

verb
law
formal
To enter into a covenant, or to promise formally by covenant that something will or will not be done.

Examples

  • The landlord covenants to keep the roof in repair.
  • The parties covenanted not to disclose the figures.
  • The deed covenants that the land will remain open space.
  • The congregation covenanted to support the new mission.
  • Each borrower covenants to maintain insurance.
  • They covenanted with one another before witnesses.

Similar words

Etymology

From Middle English covenaunt, from Old French covenant, linked to Latin convenire, "to come together" or "agree".

FAQ

What does covenant mean?

A covenant is a solemn binding agreement, promise, or clause, especially in legal, property, or religious contexts.

What is a covenant in law?

In law, a covenant is a formal promise or clause that requires someone to do or not do something.

What is a religious covenant?

A religious covenant is a sacred relationship of promise and obligation between God and a person, people, or community.

Is covenant the same as contract?

Not exactly. A covenant can be part of a contract, but it usually stresses a formal promise or obligation.

Can covenant be a verb?

Yes. To covenant is to enter into a covenant or promise formally by covenant.

What does restrictive covenant mean?

A restrictive covenant is a legal promise that limits what someone may do, often with land or property.

Where does covenant come from?

Covenant came through French into English and is linked to Latin words for coming together or agreeing.

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