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Definition of behold

behold

/bɪˈhoʊld/
be · hold
Adjective:beholden
•
Past Simple:beheld
•
Past Participle:beheld
•
Present Participle:beholding
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behold Lexical Profile

behold Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To see or observe someone or something, especially of a remarkable, impressive, or extraordinary nature.

Example

"The aurora borealis over the snowy peaks was a breathtaking sight to behold."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for behold
Antonyms
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• interjection

1

Used to command attention or direct someone to look at something remarkable, surprising, or impressive.

Example

"Behold! The ancient gates of the citadel have finally opened."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for behold

Word Nuance & Usage

The archaic past participle 'beholden' has evolved into a standalone modern adjective meaning 'owing thanks or having a duty to someone', whereas the regular past participle 'beheld' is used for the literal verb meaning 'saw' or 'observed'.

• Rhymes for behold

• Nearby Words

behemoth
behest
behind
behold
beholden
beholder
behoove

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English bihaldan, meaning 'to hold in view, keep, or observe', formed from the prefix be- ('thoroughly') and haldan ('to hold').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Behold. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/behold
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