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Bestowed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽ
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bestowed

[bษชหˆstษ™สŠd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

on someone

to present or give (an honor, right, or gift). It is often used when talking about awards, titles, or privileges being granted to someone.

Synonyms

awarded, conferred, granted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bestowed

Commonly used in formal settings when someone is given an honor, title, or gift with a sense of ceremony and significance.

  • The university bestowed an honorary degree upon the accomplished author.
  • She was bestowed with the title of 'Citizen of the Year' for her tireless work in the community.
conferred

Often used in academic or institutional contexts to indicate the formal giving of a degree, title, honor, or privilege.

  • The title of Professor Emeritus was conferred upon her after decades of dedicated teaching.
  • During the commencement ceremony, diplomas were conferred to graduating students.
granted

Used in various contexts to indicate that permission, rights, or an official status has been given, sometimes implying a response to a request.

  • The government granted him asylum after he fled his homeland.
  • She was granted access to the restricted area due to her special security clearance.
awarded

Typically used in contexts where someone receives a prize, medal, or recognition as a result of their achievements or qualifications.

  • He was awarded the Nobel Prize for his groundbreaking research in physics.
  • The best student in the class was awarded a scholarship.

Examples of usage

  • She was bestowed with the title of Queen.
  • He was bestowed the honor of being named Employee of the Year.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, bestowing gifts is an important tradition during celebrations like weddings and birthdays.
  • Ceremonially bestowed titles, such as knighthoods, signify achievements and are steeped in historical customs.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's plays, the act of bestowing often highlights important themes of love, loyalty, and power.
  • Many fairy tales involve characters being bestowed with magical gifts or powers that change their lives dramatically.

Psychology

  • Research in social psychology shows that the act of bestowing gifts can strengthen relationships and foster goodwill.
  • Bestowing praise or recognition can improve motivation and self-esteem in both personal and professional spheres.

Modern Usage

  • The term is often used in academic contexts, where degrees or honors are bestowed upon students at graduation ceremonies.
  • In the art world, critics may bestow accolades upon artists, influencing public perception and their careers.

Origin of 'bestowed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English term 'bestowen', which combines 'be' (meaning 'about') and 'stowen' (meaning 'to place').
  • Originally, it referred to putting something down in a specific place, evolving to mean giving gifts or honors.

The word 'bestowed' has its origins in the Middle English word 'bestowen', which is a combination of 'be-' (intensive prefix) and 'stowen' (to place). Over time, the meaning evolved to reflect the act of giving or presenting something. The use of 'bestowed' in English literature dates back to the 14th century, and it continues to be commonly used in formal contexts to convey the idea of granting an honor or gift.

See also: bestowal, bestower, bestowing, bestowment.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,692 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.