[Dominic Harr]

Oath is a more appropriate substitution in that usage.

You're just incorrect, I'm afraid.

In fact -- look at the next defintion in Dictionary dot com:

http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=affirm

af·firm

v. intr. Law

To declare solemnly and formally but not under oath.

"But Not Under Oath".

"Solemnly and formally".

So it just means an affirmative answer that you "mean". Not said lightly, not just for fun, but you mean it solemnly and formally. But *not* an oath!!!

Now, if you wish to keep saying it's an oath, please show me some definition somewhere that agrees with you.

[Always Right]

Not said lightly, not just for fun, but you mean it solemnly and formally. But *not* an oath!!!

In the legal world an affirmation has a different meaning than an oath. But this was not in a court of law.

Now, if you wish to keep saying it's an oath, please show me some definition somewhere that agrees with you.

Right here.

affirm - establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts;

2. affirm - to declare or affirm solemnly and formally as true; "Before God I swear I am innocent"

And here

3. affirmation - (religion) a solemn declaration that serves the same purpose as an oath (if an oath is objectionable to the person on religious or ethical grounds)