First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
bestow
verb be·stow \bi-ˈstō, bē-\
: to give (something) as a gift or honor
Full Definition of BESTOW
transitive verb
1
: to put to use : apply <bestowed his spare time on study>
2
: to put in a particular or appropriate place : stow
3
: to provide with quarters : put up
4
: to convey as a gift —usually used with on or upon
— be·stow·al \-ˈstō-əl\ noun
— be·stow·er \-ˈstō(-ə)r\ noun
See bestow defined for English-language learners
See bestow defined for kids
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Origin of BESTOW
Middle English, from be- + stowe place — more at stow
Synonym Discussion of BESTOW
give, present, donate, bestow, confer, afford mean to convey to another as a possession. give, the general term, is applicable to any passing over of anything by any means <give alms> <gave her a ride on a pony> <give my love to your mother>. present carries a note of formality and ceremony <present an award>. donate is likely to imply a publicized giving (as to charity) <donate a piano to the orphanage>. bestow implies the conveying of something as a gift and may suggest condescension on the part of the giver <bestow unwanted advice>. confer implies a gracious giving (as of a favor or honor) <confer an honorary degree>. afford implies a giving or bestowing usually as a natural or legitimate consequence of the character of the giver <the trees afford shade> <a development that affords us some hope>.
BESTOWAL Defined for Kids
bestow
verb be·stow \bi-ˈstō\
be·stowedbe·stow·ing
Definition of BESTOW for Kids
: to give as a gift or honor <bestowing an award>
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