n. In law: A person who goes surety or gives bail for another; especially, a surety whom early English law required of a plaintiff on bringing an action. After a time “John Doe” and “Richard Roe” did duty as such pledges.n. A bailment of personal property as a security for some debt or engagement. Story, J. n. Anything given or considered as security for the performance of an act; a guaranty.n. Figuratively, a child; offspring.n. A surety; a hostage.n. A formal obligation whereby one voluntarily binds himself to abstain from the use of intoxicating drink.n. A token or sign of favor, agreement, etc.n. An expression of good will, or a promise of friendship and support, conveyed by drinking together; hence, in a more general sense, the act of drinking together; the drinking of a health.To give as a pledge or pawn; deposit in pawn; deposit or leave in possession of a person as security. See pledge, n.To give or formally and solemnly offer as a guaranty or security.To bind to something by a pledge, promise, or engagement; engage solemnly: as, to pledge one's self.To guarantee the performance of by or as by a pledge.To give assurance of friendship to, or promise friendship to, by or in the act of drinking; hence, to drink a health to or with.To assure solemnly or in a binding manner; guarantee.= Syn. 1-3. To pawn, hypothecate. See plight, verb