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Befitting: meaning, definitions and examples

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befitting

 

[ bɪˈfɪtɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

suitable behavior

Befitting describes something that is appropriate or suitable for a particular situation, event, or individual. It implies that the action or characteristic aligns well with the requirements or expectations at hand. The term is often used to denote a sense of dignity or respect that is matched to a specific context. For example, a formal outfit may be befitting for a wedding.

Synonyms

appropriate, fitting, proper, seemly, suitable

Examples of usage

  • The award ceremony had a befitting atmosphere.
  • Her attire was befitting of the occasion.
  • He gave a befitting tribute to his mentor.

Translations

Translations of the word "befitting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apropriado

🇮🇳 योग्य

🇩🇪 angemessen

🇮🇩 sesuai

🇺🇦 відповідний

🇵🇱 odpowiedni

🇯🇵 ふさわしい

🇫🇷 approprié

🇪🇸 apropiado

🇹🇷 uygun

🇰🇷 적합한

🇸🇦 مناسب

🇨🇿 vhodný

🇸🇰 vhodný

🇨🇳 合适的

🇸🇮 primeren

🇮🇸 hæfandi

🇰🇿 лайықты

🇬🇪 შესაბამისი

🇦🇿 uyğun

🇲🇽 adecuado

Etymology

The word 'befitting' comes from the Middle English term 'bifitting', which is a combination of the prefix 'be-' meaning 'to be' and 'fitting', derived from the Old English 'fittan', meaning 'to fit'. This root conveys the idea of something being in accordance with or suitable for a specific circumstance. The usage of 'befitting' has evolved over time, emerging prominently in literary contexts where appropriateness or suitability was emphasized, especially in relation to character behavior or social expectations. As society has changed, the term has adapted to encompass various applications, often signifying a positive alignment with norms and values.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,633, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.