bestow
bih-STOH
Bestow (verb) means to give something formally or ceremonially, often as an honour. Example: “The university bestowed an honorary degree on the retiring professor.”
verb
1
To give something formally or ceremonially, often as an honour.
"The university bestowed an honorary degree on the retiring professor."
"The king bestowed a title on the loyal knight."
How to use bestow
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo formally give or grant something, often as an honour or gift.
When to use it
Fairly formal; used for awards, titles, and honours more than everyday gifts.
Common pairings
bestow an honour
bestow a title
bestow a gift upon someone
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Word forms
- Plural
- bestows
- Third person singular
- bestows
- Past tense
- bestowed
- Archaic forms
- bestowest, bestowedst, bestoweth
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The university _____ an honorary degree on the retiring professor.
Etymology
From Middle English bestowen, built from "be-" plus "stow" ("to place or pack away") — originally meaning to put something in its proper place.
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “bestow” mean?
The word “bestow” means to give something formally or ceremonially, often as an honour. In plain terms, to formally give or grant something, often as an honour or gift.
How do you pronounce “bestow”?
“Bestow” is pronounced bih-STOH (/bɪˈstoʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “bestow” in a sentence?
Here is “bestow” used in a sentence: “The university bestowed an honorary degree on the retiring professor.”
What part of speech is “bestow”?
“Bestow” is a verb.
Where does the word “bestow” come from?
The word “bestow” comes from Middle English. From Middle English bestowen, built from "be-" plus "stow" ("to place or pack away") — originally meaning to put something in its proper place.
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