PLEDGE (2)

Pledge, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Pledged (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Pledging.] [[Cf. OF. pleiger to give security. See Pledge, n.]] 1. 1. To deposit, as a chattel, in pledge or pawn; to leave in possession of another as security; as, to pledge one's watch.
2. 2. To give or pass as a security; to guarantee; to engage; to plight; as, to pledge one's word and honor.
We mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor. The Declaration of Independence. 3. 3. To secure performance of, as by a pledge.
To pledge my vow, I give my hand. Shak. 4. 4. To bind or engage by promise or declaration; to engage solemnly; as, to pledge one's self.
5. 5. To invite another to drink, by drinking of the cup first, and then handing it to him, as a pledge of good will; hence, to drink the health of; to toast.
Pledge me, my friend, and drink till thou be'st wise. Cowley.