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Besom Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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besom

[หˆbษ›z.ษ™m ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

broom-like tool

A besom is a type of broom made from twigs bound together, traditionally used for sweeping. It is often associated with folklore and witchcraft, symbolizing a connection to magical practices.

Synonyms

broom, cleaner, sweep.

Examples of usage

  • She used a besom to sweep the old cottage.
  • In the story, the witch flew on her besom.
  • The tidy-up included a traditional besom to clear the yard.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'besom'

The word 'besom' originates from the Old English 'bฤ“osuma', which refers to a broom made of twigs or branches. The use of 'besom' as a term for a broom can be traced back to the 15th century, and it is associated with rural and domestic life in England. Traditionally, a besom was crafted from birch or similar flexible branches, which made it effective for sweeping. The tie between besoms and witchcraft emerged in the folklore of the early modern period, when witches were often depicted using them as flying tools. Hence, the besom became a cultural symbol of sorcery and the supernatural. Over time, the word has been adopted in other contexts, though it maintains a nostalgic connection to agrarian life and traditional practices.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,473, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.