bestow
bih-STOH
/bɪˈstoʊ/
To confer or present an honor, right, title, or gift upon someone.
Implies a formal, dignifying, or ceremonial grant, often from a higher authority or generous benefactor.
The story behind the word. Originally in Middle English, 'stow' meant a place or spot (which survives in place names like Walthamstow). 'Bestow' meant to put something in its proper place or to store it away. Over time, placing an honor or valuable item upon someone transformed into the modern sense of conferring a dignity or gift.
Word relationships
- confer: Confer is formal and usually relates to titles, degrees, or awards through official process.
- grant: Grant often implies giving permission or yielding to a request rather than honoring.
- withhold: Withhold means to refuse to give or to keep back.
- strip: Strip means to deprive someone of rank, honor, or property.
Commonly confused with
- bequeath: Bequeath specifically means to leave property to someone in a will after death.
Word family
- bestowal (noun): The act of conferring or presenting a gift or honor.
Collocations
- bestow an honor
- bestow a favor
- bestow praise
- bestow upon
Example sentences
- "The university decided to bestow an honorary doctorate upon the distinguished scientist." Award ceremonies
- "In ancient times, monarchs would bestow land and titles upon loyal military commanders." Historical accounts
Memory hook
To BESTOW is to place a gift into a STOW-age of honor. PLACE AN HONOR on someone.
When not to use
Do not use for casual giving, like handing someone a pen; use it for honors, awards, blessings, or major gifts.
Fun facts
- Shakespeare frequently used bestow in its older sense of 'to lodge or accommodate someone'.
Related words
Explore more words
impart, bequeath, gracious, Benefactor, give permission, lavish
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