af·firm / əˈfərm/ • v. [tr.] state as a fact; assert strongly and publicly: he affirmed the country's commitment to peace. ∎  declare one's support for; uphold or defend: the referendum affirmed the republic's right to secede. ∎  Law accept or confirm the validity of (a judgment or agreement); ratify. ∎  Law (of a court) uphold (a decision) on appeal. ∎  [intr.] Law make a formal declaration rather than taking an oath (e.g., to testify truthfully).DERIVATIVES: af·firm·er n.

AFFIRM

To ratify, establish, or reassert. To make a solemn and formal declaration, as a substitute for an oath, that the statements contained in anaffidavitare true or that a witness will tell the truth. In the practice of appellate courts, to declare a judgment, decree, or order valid and to concur in its correctness so that it must stand as rendered in the lower court. As a matter ofpleading, to allege or aver a matter of fact.

A judgment, decree, or order that is not affirmed is either remanded (sent back to the lower court with instructions to correct the irregularities noted in the appellate opinion) or reversed (changed by the appellate court so that the decision of the lower court is overturned).

affirm XIV. ME. affermen — OF. afermer (mod. affirmer) :- L. affirmāre-, f. AF- + firmus FIRM1.
So affirmation XV. — F. or L.