covenant
KUV-uh-nuhnt
/ˈkʌvənənt/
A solemn binding agreement or promise, especially one of a religious or legal nature between god and humans or between people.
Implies a deep, permanent moral or spiritual commitment far beyond a routine business contract.
The story behind the word. From Old French 'covenant' (agreement), originating from Latin 'convenire' (to come together, fit together). In English history, it gained fame through theological covenants and political pledges like the Scottish National Covenant of 1638.
Word relationships
- pact: 'Pact' often denotes political or diplomatic treaties, whereas 'covenant' has heavy religious and moral overtones.
- contract: 'Contract' is a purely legal/commercial term; 'covenant' involves sacred obligation and personal commitment.
- disavowal: 'Disavowal' is the denial or rejection of responsibility or connection.
Commonly confused with
- Convent: A 'convent' is a community or residence of nuns; a 'covenant' is a solemn pledge.
Word family
- covenanter (noun): One who enters into a covenant.
Collocations
- sacred covenant
- enter into a covenant
- covenant of peace
- breach of covenant
Example sentences
- "The Abrahamic covenant forms a cornerstone of Jewish faith and identity." Biblical Tradition
- "The founders signed a solemn covenant promising mutual aid and protection." Legal History
Memory hook
CO-VENTURE: People coming together to seal a binding promise. A sacred promise that binds.
When not to use
Avoid for temporary or informal everyday agreements like lunch plans.
Fun facts
- In real estate law, a 'restrictive covenant' is a clause enforcing restrictions on land usage, a secular descendant of this ancient binding term.
Related words
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