Obs. Also 5 ernest. [f. the adj.] To secure by giving or taking earnest.
1447. Bokenham, Seyntys (1835), 120. A nothir lovere … Wyth the ryng of hys feyth hath ernestyd me.
1630. Lord, Banians, Introd. B 2. I was willing to earnest his loue to mee by this iniunction.
1695. J. St. N., Widow’s Mite, 28. Election made sure, confirmed, sealed, witnessed, earnested by the peculiar Spirit of Adoption.
