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Bestow: meaning, definitions and examples

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bestow

 

[ bɪˈstəʊ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

formal

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

Synonyms

award, confer, give, grant, present

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

Examples of usage

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

Translations

Translations of the word "bestow" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conceder

🇮🇳 प्रदान करना

🇩🇪 verleihen

🇮🇩 menganugerahkan

🇺🇦 дарувати

🇵🇱 obdarzać

🇯🇵 授ける (sazukeru)

🇫🇷 accorder

🇪🇸 otorgar

🇹🇷 bağışlamak

🇰🇷 수여하다 (suyuhada)

🇸🇦 منح (manh)

🇨🇿 udělit

🇸🇰 udeliť

🇨🇳 授予 (shòuyǔ)

🇸🇮 podeliti

🇮🇸 veita

🇰🇿 беру

🇬🇪 მინიჭება (minich'eba)

🇦🇿 bəxş etmək

🇲🇽 otorgar

Etymology

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.

See also: best.

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.