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Bestriding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bestriding

[bɪˈstraɪdɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical action

To bestride means to stand or sit with a leg on either side of something, typically in an assertive or dominant position. It can also mean to extend over or dominate something in a figurative sense.

Synonyms

mount, sit over, straddle.

Examples of usage

  • He was bestriding the horse confidently.
  • The statue was found bestriding the entrance to the plaza.
  • She seemed to bestride the difficulties in life with ease.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's 'Henry V', the term is used metaphorically to describe King Henry’s control over his kingdom.
  • The imagery of 'bestriding' often evokes themes of power and authority in classic literature.

Cultural Significance

  • The act of bestriding can symbolize confidence, as it often depicts someone taking charge of a situation.
  • In some cultures, sitting astride a horse is seen as a rite of passage, symbolizing maturity and readiness for responsibilities.

Psychology

  • Body language experts suggest that taking a 'bestriding' stance can convey assertiveness in social interactions.
  • Standing with a wide stance can increase feelings of confidence and decrease feelings of powerlessness.

Sports

  • In equestrian sports, the ability to expertly bestride a horse is crucial for effective riding and performance.
  • This posture not only enhances balance but also showcases the rider's skill and connection with the horse.

Origin of 'bestriding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bestride' comes from Old English 'bestrīdan', where 'be-' means about or around and 'strīdan' means to stride.
  • Historically, the term was used to describe not just riding animals but also a way to indicate dominance or control over something.

The word 'bestride' comes from the Old English 'bestrīdan', which is a combination of 'be-' meaning 'by' or 'about' and 'strīdan' meaning 'to stride' or 'to step'. The word has historical roots in the early Germanic languages, with similar forms appearing in Old High German as 'bistritan' and Old Norse as 'bestrīða'. Its usage has evolved over time, encapsulating both the literal act of sitting astride something and the metaphorical sense of dominating or controlling a situation. By the Middle Ages, 'bestride' was commonly used in literary texts to describe knights and nobles riding horses, reflecting the social hierarchies of the time. Today, it can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts, illustrating its versatility in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,280, 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.