What is a pledge?

A pledge is a solemn or formal promise or agreement to do or refrain from doing something. It can also refer to something delivered as security for the payment of a debt or fulfillment of an obligation.

In a broader sense, a pledge can be a binding commitment to do or give something, such as a promise to donate money to a charity or a vow to perform a specific action. It can also be a sum of money or something valuable left with somebody to prove that you will do something or pay back money that you owe.

For example, "We are asking people to pledge their support for the new community center" or "I pledge that I will honor my wife".