Definition of "protestation"

protestation

/ˌpɹɒtɪsˈteɪʃən/

noun
countable and uncountable, plural protestations
1. A formal solemn objection or other declaration.
  Quotations
  The protestation of our faith.
  October 28, 1552, Hugh Latimer, Sermon on the Gospel for St Simon and St Jude's Day
  “These are but words, young man,” answered Glendinning, “large protestations are often used to supply the place of effectual service. […]”
  1820, [Walter Scott], chapter XV, in The Abbot. […], volume I, Edinburgh: […] [James Ballantyne & Co.] for Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme, and Brown, […]; and for Archibald Constable and Company, and John Ballantyne, […], page 335
  Mechanically he retained the hand that trembled in his own—but Isabella needed no protestations—one word from his mouth had been enough, and she sat in silent "measureless content."
  1838 (date written), L[etitia] E[lizabeth] L[andon], chapter XI, in Lady Anne Granard; or, Keeping up Appearances. […], volume I, London: Henry Colburn, […], published 1842, page 143
2. (law, historical) A declaration in common-law pleading, by which the party interposes an oblique allegation or denial of some fact, protesting that it does or does not exist, and at the same time avoiding a direct affirmation or denial.