aver

aver [əˈvɜr] v.t.

1.) To assert as a fact; to state positively, affirm.
2.) [Law] To prove or justify a plea; to offer to justify an exception pleaded; to make an averment.
3.) [Obs.] To declare true, assert the truth of (a statement).
4.) [Obs.] To prove true, confirm, verify.
5.) [Arch.] To assert the existence or occurrence of (Oxford English Dictionary, 2nd Ed.).

Etymology: Middle English averren, from Old French averer, from Vulgar Latin advrre : Latin ad- + Latin vrus, true.

"That is truth, pardy, said Dixon, and, or I err, a pregnant word. Which hearing young Stephen was a marvellous glad man and he averred that he who stealeth from the poor lendeth to the Lord for he was of a wild manner when he was drunken and that he was now in that taking it appeared eftsoons" (Ulysses, James Joyce, 1922).

___________________________________________________

Well, that's week one for MA. Thanks to all my followers, and thanks for the comments!