Beheld Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
beheld
[bษชหhษld ]
Definition
past tense
Beheld is the past tense of behold, which means to see or observe something, especially something remarkable or noteworthy. It is often used in literary contexts to convey a sense of wonder or awe.
Synonyms
observed, regarded, saw, witnessed.
Examples of usage
- She beheld the sunrise over the mountains.
- The artist beheld his masterpiece with pride.
- They beheld the ancient ruins in silence.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In classic literature, 'beheld' often describes moments of revelation or awe, elevating the emotional weight of the narrative.
- Shakespeare frequently used 'beheld' in his works to convey depth of perception and understanding.
- The use of 'beheld' can add a poetic quality to writing, evoking imagery that resonates with the reader.
Cultural References
- 'Beheld' often appears in religious texts, symbolizing a divine vision or revelation, particularly in the Bible.
- The phrase 'I beheld' frequently introduces significant events or the presence of the divine in literature and art.
- Visual artists may use 'beheld' to describe their experience of capturing beauty and truth in their work.
Psychology
- The act of beholding can create emotional connections, making us more receptive to beauty and inspiration.
- Research suggests that pausing to truly behold something meaningful can enhance mindfulness and well-being.
- Beholding a beautiful scene can trigger a release of dopamine, improving oneโs mood and encouraging positive feelings.
Pop Culture
- Certain songs and poems use 'beheld' to create a sense of nostalgia, deep emotion, or a moment of clarity.
- Movies sometimes feature characters 'beholding' something extraordinary, emphasizing character growth or awareness.
- The word 'beheld' has been referenced in modern media to evoke historical or Shakespearean themes, appealing to a sense of grandeur.
Origin of 'beheld'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'behealdan', meaning to hold or keep in sight.
- It has connections to Middle English, where it appeared as 'beholden', used in poetry and literature.
- The prefix 'be-' in Old English often indicates completion or intensification.
The word 'beheld' originates from Old English 'behealdan', which combines the prefix 'be-' meaning 'about' or 'around' and 'healdan' meaning 'to hold'. This compound suggests the notion of holding something in view or observing it closely. Over time, 'beheld' evolved in English usage, primarily retaining its literary connotations. Historical texts often used it to denote not just seeing but perceiving or experiencing something with a sense of significance, thus giving it a more profound and reflective quality. The term has been used by various poets and writers throughout the centuries, further cementing its place in the English language as a word that expresses the act of witnessing something with intent and appreciation.