Endow: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used when talking about providing a person, institution, or entity with a quality, ability, or a source of permanent income. Frequently seen in academic, charitable, and foundational settings.

• The millionaire decided to endow the university with a sizable sum to support its research programs.
• Nature has endowed her with great musical talent.

Used broadly in everyday contexts to describe the act of giving something as a gift, regardless of the formality. It is a versatile word suitable for most occasions.

• She gifted him a watch for his birthday.
• They often gift each other small tokens of appreciation.

Typically used in official or institutional contexts, such as giving permission, rights, or funds for a specific purpose. It often involves a formal process.

• The government will grant you a permit to build on that land.
• The foundation granted a scholarship to the deserving student.

Commonly used in formal or ceremonial contexts where an honor, right, or gift is being given. This word carries a sense of dignity and respect.

• The queen will bestow knighthood on several distinguished citizens.
• The committee decided to bestow the award upon him for his lifetime achievements.

Typically used when providing a gift of money or property to an institution, especially when setting up a fund or foundation for a specific purpose.

• The university was endowed with a new scholarship fund by a generous alumnus.
• The library was endowed with a rare collection of books.

Often used in legal and formal contexts, referring to passing down personal property or assets to someone through a will after death.

• He bequeathed his entire estate to his children.
• She decided to bequeath her jewelry to her granddaughter.

Used in legal and financial contexts meaning to resolve or come to an agreement about something, especially payments or debts.

• They agreed to settle the lawsuit out of court.
• He settled his debt with the bank.

Usually used when giving or providing something officially or formally, such as permissions, rights, or financial aid, often by an authority or organization.

• The government granted him asylum.
• She was granted a research scholarship for her studies.

Typically used when someone provides a large sum of money or valuable assets to an institution like a school, hospital or charity, often creating a fund that supports the organization over a long period.

• The billionaire decided to endow the university with a new research center.
• She plans to endow the hospital with enough money to build a new wing.

Used to describe a wide range of acts of giving, including money, time, effort, or knowledge, generally aimed at supporting a cause or project. It can be formal or informal.

• His contributions to the team were crucial for their success.
• We appreciate your contribution to the community event.

Refers to giving money or goods to a cause, organization, or individual, generally without expecting anything in return. Often used in the context of charities and non-profit organizations.

• She made a generous donation to the local food bank.
• The museum relies on donations to maintain its exhibits.

A general term for something given to someone willingly without payment. It can be something tangible like an object, or symbolic such as an act of kindness. Often used in personal and informal contexts.

• He gave her a beautiful necklace as a birthday gift.
• Receiving a thoughtful gift always brings joy.