figurative. To offer (one's oath, etc.) as security for the fulfilment of a promise, etc.

figurative. To pledge, offer as a guarantee or forfeit (one's head, life, etc.). (Cf. engage, v. 2.)

transitive. To pledge, stake, wager, or risk (one's life, honour, word, etc.); to give to another as a token or promise.

figurative. To pledge, offer as a guarantee (one's life, honour, etc.); also, to expose to risk, compromise. rare in modern use.

figurative. To offer (one's head, etc.) as a pledge, guarantee, or forfeit.

intransitive. To make a pledge or oath, to give one's word. Obsolete.

transitive. figurative. To promise by the pledge of; to plight or stake (one's life, future, honour, word, etc.).