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
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Origin of BESTOW

Middle English, from be- + stowe place — more at stow
First Known Use: 14th century

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>.
BESTOWED 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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Next Word in the Dictionary: bestowmentPrevious Word in the Dictionary: best–offAll Words Near: bestow
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