Emily Dickinson Lexicon

PROM'ISE, v.t.

1. To make a declaration to another, which binds the promiser in honor, conscience or law, to do or forbear some act; as, to promise a visit to a friend; to promise a cessation of hostilities; to promise the payment of money.
2. To afford reason to expect; as, the year promises a good harvest.
3. To make declaration or give assurance of some benefit to be conferred; to pledge or engage to bestow. The proprietors promised large tracts of land. – Charter of Dartmouth College.