bestride

[ bih-strahyd ]

verb (used with object)

, be·strode or be·strid, be·strid·den or be·strid, be·strid·ing.

1. to get or be astride of; have or place the legs on both sides of.
2. to step over or across with long strides.
3. to stand or tower over; dominate.

bestride

/ bɪˈstraɪd /

verb

1. to have or put a leg on either side of
2. to extend across; span
3. to stride over or across

Word History and Origins

Origin of bestride¹

before 1000; Middle English bestriden, Old English bestrīdan. See be-, stride

Example Sentences

The chief wanted a brave boy, to bestride a horse and wield a sword, and govern the unruly Grant clan with a strong hand.

From Project Gutenberg

It is no known animal which they bestride, having a face something like that of a caterpillar.

From Project Gutenberg

In the midst a dark and lazy current, which a tall man might bestride, crept twisting like a snake among the weeds and rushes.

From Project Gutenberg

Leg of man, swears grand old Pierre, shall never more bestride my steed; no more shall harness touch him!

From Project Gutenberg

Nobody rode at the Hall, and she longed to bestride a pony and dash off for a twenty-mile canter.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• arise
• escalate
• go up
• rise
• soar