Emily Dickinson Lexicon

pledge (-s), v. [Late ME plege or OFr plegier, to guarantee, bail.] (webplay: cup, dead pledge, drinking, first, given, lay, living pledge, repayment, vow, wife).

1. Promise; deposit in pawn; offer as payment; present as collateral to secure a loan.
2. Toast; drink to the health of; demonstrate fidelity by proposing a toast in honor of.