An oath of secrecy for the concealing of those
[inventions] which we think fit to keep secret.
--Bacon.
2. A solemn affirmation, connected with a sacred object, or
one regarded as sacred, as the temple, the altar, the
blood of Abel, the Bible, the Koran, etc.
3. (Law) An appeal (in verification of a statement made) to a
superior sanction, in such a form as exposes the party
making the appeal to an indictment for perjury if the
statement be false.
4. A careless and blasphemous use of the name of the divine
Being, or anything divine or sacred, by way of appeal or
as a profane exclamation or ejaculation; an expression of
profane swearing. ``A terrible oath'' --Shak.