What does pledge and allegiance mean?

A pledge is a solemn promise or commitment to do something, often involving loyalty or support. Allegiance refers to loyalty or devotion to a person, group, cause, or nation. Together, "pledge allegiance" typically signifies a formal declaration of loyalty to a country, often recited in ceremonies, such as the Pledge of Allegiance in the United States, where individuals express their commitment to the nation's values and principles.