bestow

[ bih-stoh ]

verb (used with object)

1. to present as a gift; give; confer (usually followed by on or upon ):

   The trophy was bestowed upon the winner.

   Synonyms: accord, award, vouchsafe, grant

2. Archaic. to put to some use; apply:

   He was continually working the mines, expending money and bestowing his time, toil, and skill upon them.

3. Archaic.
   1. to provide quarters for; house; lodge.
   2. to put; stow; deposit; store.

bestow

/ bɪˈstəʊ /

verb

1. to present (a gift) or confer (an award or honour)
2. archaic.
   to apply (energy, resources, etc)
3. archaic.
   to house (a person) or store (goods)

Derived Forms

• beˈstower, noun
• beˈstowal, noun

Other Words From

• be·stow·al be·stow·ment noun
• mis·be·stow verb (used with object)
• pre·be·stow verb (used with object)
• pre·be·stow·al noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bestow¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English bestowen; be-, stow ( def )

Example Sentences

It was here, in 2017, that Xi hosted Trump, bestowing on his guest an honour not granted to any US president since the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

From BBC

She bestows Truthsayers to select houses and denies others, including her own.

From Salon

Today, its architectural importance is recognised in the Grade II* listed status bestowed upon the building's first-floor galleries.

From BBC

The awards and honors bestowed on Jones were nearly mind-bending.

From Los Angeles Times

By the time the final whistle sounded, an aching Pregnon was asked to brandish the sword and lead the USC band, an honor often bestowed upon the game’s most critical player.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bequeath
• confer
• donate
• entrust
• grant
• hand out
• lavish