Past tense of declare; to announce or state something formally and publicly. Often used in official or legal contexts to make something known with authority.
From Latin 'declarare' meaning 'to make clear, reveal' (de- 'completely' + clarare 'to clarify'). Entered English via Old French 'declarer' in the 14th century. The meaning evolved from simply 'making clear' to formal announcement or proclamation.
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