bestow
bih-STOH
/bɪˈstoʊ/
To present something as a formal gift, honor, or right.
Unlike 'give', 'bestow' implies a formal, dignified, or highly respectful transfer of something valuable, often from a position of authority or high esteem.
The story behind the word. In Middle English, 'stow' meant a place or a spot (a meaning we still see in 'stowaway' or 'stow the luggage'). To 'bestow' originally meant to find a proper place for something, to deposit it safely. Over the centuries, this idea of placing something valuable in a safe spot evolved into the formal act of placing a gift or honor into someone's hands.
Word relationships
- confer: 'Confer' is typically used for degrees, titles, or legal rights, whereas 'bestow' can also apply to physical gifts or abstract blessings.
- grant: 'Grant' often implies answering a request or giving permission, while 'bestow' is a proactive act of honoring someone.
- withhold: 'Withhold' means to deliberately refuse to give something that is due or requested.
- divest: 'Divest' means to strip or deprive someone of a power, right, or possession.
Commonly confused with
- bequeath: 'Bequeath' specifically refers to leaving something to someone in a will after death, whereas 'bestow' happens during life.
Word family
- bestowal (noun): The act of presenting an honor or gift.
- bestowed (verb): Past tense of bestow.
Collocations
- bestow an honor
- bestow a title
- bestow a blessing
- bestow a gift
Example sentences
- "The university decided to bestow an honorary doctorate upon the distinguished novelist." A formal ceremony honoring a lifetime of achievement.
Memory hook
Think of putting a valuable treasure in a secret 'stow' (place) to 'bestow' it later on a worthy king. Bestow is to place (stow) an honor upon the best.
When not to use
Do not use for casual, everyday giving. You do not bestow a cup of coffee on a coworker or bestow a toy on a toddler.
Fun facts
- In Shakespeare's plays, 'bestow' was frequently used to mean 'to spend' or 'to employ', such as bestowing time or money on a task.
Related words
Explore more words
impart, bequeath, gracious, Benefactor, give permission, lavish
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