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Definition of bestow

bestow

/bɪˈstoʊ/
be · stow
Adjective:bestowable
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Past Simple:bestowed
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Past Participle:bestowed
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Present Participle:bestowing
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bestow Lexical Profile

bestow Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To confer or present an honor, right, or gift upon someone.

Example

"The university decided to bestow an honorary doctorate upon the renowned scientist."

2

To put, stow, or deposit something in a specified place (archaic or literary).

Example

"The travelers managed to bestow their heavy trunks safely inside the carriage before nightfall."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for bestow
Antonyms
View all antonyms for bestow

Word Nuance & Usage

'Bestow' is a formal verb that is almost always followed by the prepositions 'on' or 'upon' to indicate the recipient (e.g., 'bestow an honor upon someone'), and it implies a sense of dignity or superiority on the part of the giver.

• Rhymes for bestow

• Nearby Words

bestial
bestiality
bestie
bestow
bestowal
bestower
bestowment

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English bestowen, formed from the prefix be- ('thoroughly' or 'around') and stowen ('to place'), derived from Old English stōw meaning 'a place'.

Cite this Entry

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