1. profane or obscene expression usually of surprise or anger (Freq. 1) - expletives were deleted • Syn: curse, curse word, expletive, oath, swearword, cuss • Derivationally related forms: cuss (for: cuss), swear, curse (for: curse) • Hypernyms: profanity 2. a commitment to tell the truth (especially in a court of law); to lie under oath is to become subject to prosecution for perjury • Syn: oath • Derivationally related forms: swear • Hypernyms: commitment, dedication