Legal Definitions - verily

Verily

“Verily” is an archaic adverb used to emphasize the truth, certainty, or factual nature of a statement. While rarely encountered in modern legal or everyday language, it signifies that something is truly, certainly, or in fact the case.

• Example 1: Imagine a historical document from centuries ago, perhaps a royal decree or a formal declaration. A passage might read, "We do verily declare this new law to be binding upon all citizens of the realm."

  Explanation: In this context, "verily" highlights the absolute truth and certainty of the declaration. It leaves no doubt that the new law is genuinely and definitively in effect, emphasizing the authority and finality of the statement.

• Example 2: Consider a scene in an older play or novel where a character is making a solemn vow or affirmation. A character might exclaim, "I did verily see the culprit flee the scene with my own eyes!"

  Explanation: Here, "verily" underscores the speaker's unwavering conviction and the truthfulness of their testimony. It asserts that they truly and certainly witnessed the event, adding weight and credibility to their statement.

• Example 3: In a historical account of a trial, an ancient oath might have required a witness to state, "I verily swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth."

  Explanation: This use of "verily" reinforces the sincerity and absolute commitment of the witness to their oath. It signifies that their promise to speak truthfully is made genuinely and without reservation, emphasizing the profound importance of their testimony.