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Betide: meaning, definitions and examples

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betide

 

[ bɪˈtaɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

formal usage

To befall or happen to someone, often used in literary or poetic contexts. It signifies an occurrence or event that affects someone, particularly in a dramatic or significant manner.

Synonyms

befall, ensue, happen, occur

Examples of usage

  • A great fate may betide him.
  • Let whatever may betide, I will stand by you.
  • Dangers may betide in the dark.
  • What would betide if we missed the train?
  • Strange events betide in the old mansion.

Translations

Translations of the word "betide" in other languages:

🇵🇹 acontecer

🇮🇳 घटना होना

🇩🇪 geschehen

🇮🇩 terjadi

🇺🇦 статися

🇵🇱 zdarzyć się

🇯🇵 起こる

🇫🇷 arriver

🇪🇸 suceder

🇹🇷 olmak

🇰🇷 발생하다

🇸🇦 يحدث

🇨🇿 nástat

🇸🇰 stať sa

🇨🇳 发生

🇸🇮 zgoditi se

🇮🇸 gerast

🇰🇿 болу

🇬🇪 ხდება

🇦🇿 baş vermək

🇲🇽 suceder

Etymology

The term 'betide' originates from the Middle English word 'bitiden,' which itself comes from the Old English 'bitidan,' meaning 'to happen, befall.' The word is composed of the prefix 'be-' meaning 'about' or 'concerning,' combined with 'tidian,' which relates to time or occurrence. Over time, 'betide' evolved to take on a more poetic and formal connotation, often found in literature and romantic or dramatic expressions. It has been used in various literary works, highlighting a sense of fate or destiny that befalls individuals, contributing to its dramatic flair. The usage of 'betide' has diminished in modern conversation, making it more prevalent in historical texts and in works that strive for an archaic or elevated diction.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,654, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.