Legal Definitions - affidare

Affidare is a Law Latin term meaning "to swear faith to." Historically, it specifically referred to a tenant's pledge of loyalty and faithfulness to their lord.

Affidare refers to the act of formally pledging loyalty, allegiance, or faithfulness to another party. It signifies a solemn commitment to uphold one's duty, trust, or obligations within a specific relationship or agreement.

• Example 1 (Political/Civic): When a new citizen takes an oath of allegiance during a naturalization ceremony, they formally declare their loyalty to their new country and its laws.

  Explanation: This ceremony represents an "affidare" because the individual is publicly and formally pledging their faithfulness and allegiance to the nation, establishing a new relationship of civic duty and trust.

• Example 2 (Professional/Ethical): A doctor, upon graduating from medical school, takes the Hippocratic Oath, promising to practice medicine ethically and prioritize the well-being of their patients.

  Explanation: Taking this oath is an "affidare" as the doctor is solemnly committing their loyalty and dedication to the principles of their profession and the welfare of those they serve, establishing a foundational trust with their future patients.

• Example 3 (Historical/Contractual): In ancient Roman law, a freed slave might perform an "affidare" to their former master, pledging continued service or respect in exchange for ongoing protection or support.

  Explanation: This act constituted an "affidare" because the freed slave was formally committing their faithfulness and allegiance to their former master, solidifying a new, albeit still hierarchical, relationship based on mutual understanding and obligation.