Bestow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bestow

[bɪˈstəʊ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

formal

To present something as a gift or honor; to confer or grant.

Synonyms

award, confer, give, grant, present.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bestow	Used in formal settings when giving something valuable or honorable, often as a mark of recognition or honor. The university decided to bestow an honorary degree upon the renowned scientist. The king will bestow knighthood on the brave soldier.
grant	Used frequently in official or formal contexts, suggesting the giving of something that has been requested or deserved. The government will grant permission for the new construction project. The foundation granted him a research fellowship.
confer	Typically used in academic or official contexts, implying a formal discussion or decision to give an honor, title, or degree. The board will confer the title of Emeritus Professor to the retiring faculty member. The council decided to confer the title of 'Citizen of the Year' on the philanthropist.
award	Often used in competitive or selective contexts, granting someone a prize or recognition for achievement. She was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. The committee will award scholarships to the top students.
give	The most general and commonly used term, suitable for any situation where something is being handed over or provided without any formal implication. I'll give you my phone number. She decided to give him a gift for his birthday.
present	Used when giving something in a ceremonial or public manner, often as a form of recognition. The CEO will present the employee of the month award during the meeting. They presented her with a bouquet of flowers as a thank-you gift.

Examples of usage

Her Majesty bestowed knighthood on the actor for his services to the arts.
The university bestowed an honorary degree upon the distinguished professor.
The king bestowed lands and titles upon his loyal followers.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

literary

To put or place something in a particular position or location.

Synonyms

bestow upon, place, position, set.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bestow	Used when giving an honor, gift, or right formally and ceremonially. The king decided to bestow knighthood upon the brave warrior. She will bestow her blessing upon you during the ceremony.
place	Commonly used for putting something in a specific location or arrangement; also used metaphorically to assign someone to a role or situation. Please place the books on the top shelf. The company decided to place him in charge of the new project.
position	Typically used when putting something or someone in a specific place or arrangement, often for functional or strategic purposes. Can also refer to one's job or role. They decided to position the statue at the entrance of the park. She holds a senior position in the company.
set	Often used for arranging or putting something in a particular place, or for getting something ready. Can also refer to defining rules or conditions. She set the table for dinner. The teacher set the guidelines for the project.
bestow upon	Similar to 'bestow,' but often emphasizes the formal granting of something significant to someone else. The university will bestow upon him an honorary degree. She bestowed upon her daughter the family heirloom necklace.

Examples of usage

The setting sun bestowed a golden glow upon the mountains.
The artist bestowed great detail upon his masterpiece.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

Shakespeare often used 'bestow' in his works, emphasizing the importance of giving in relationships.
In poetry, 'bestowing' is often paired with love or honor, highlighting the emotional weight of the act.
The act of bestowing can also be seen in fairy tales, where characters receive gifts that change their lives.

Cultural Significance

Many cultures have ceremonies that involve bestowing honors, such as medals or titles, to recognize achievement.
In some traditions, bestowing a family heirloom signifies the passing down of history and values.
The act of bestowing a name in various cultures often carries significant personal and familial importance.

Psychology

Giving, or bestowing, gifts can lead to enhanced feelings of happiness and connection in relationships.
Studies show that bestowing attention or time is often valued more than material gifts, enhancing emotional bonds.
The psychology of bestowing involves concepts of reciprocity, where giving can create a cycle of kindness.

Origin of 'bestow'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Old English 'bestowen', meaning to lay down or place.
Its roots can be traced back to the 12th century, showcasing how long people have been using it in the context of giving.
In Middle English, 'bestow' was used in both the physical sense of placing items and in a metaphorical sense of giving.

The word 'bestow' originated from the Middle English word 'bestowen', which is a combination of 'be-' (completely) and 'stowen' (to place). It first appeared in the early 15th century. Over time, 'bestow' evolved to its current meaning of presenting something as a gift or honor. The term is commonly used in formal and literary contexts to emphasize the act of granting or placing something with care and significance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,163, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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11160 maturing
11161 reviewer
11162 syntactic
11163 bestow
11164 depicting
11165 stratification
11166 wickedness
...