1. (

• assert ,
• asseverate ,
• maintain

) state categorically ;

2. (

• affirm ,
• verify ,
• assert ,
• avow ,
• aver ,
• swan ,
• swear ,

) to declare or affirm solemnly and formally as true; "Before God I swear I am innocent" ;

3. (

• assert ,
• put_forward

) insist on having one's opinions and rights recognized; "Women should assert themselves more!" ;

4. (

• insist ,
• assert

) postulate positively and assertively; "The letter asserts a free society" ;