bespeak

[ bih-speek ]

verb (used with object)

, be·spoke or (Archaic) be·spake; be·spo·ken or be·spoke; be·speak·ing.

1. to ask for in advance:

   to bespeak the reader's patience.

2. to reserve beforehand; engage in advance; make arrangements for:

   to bespeak a seat in a theater.

3. Literary. to speak to; address.
4. to show; indicate:

   This bespeaks a kindly heart.

5. Obsolete. to foretell; forebode.

bespeak

/ bɪˈspiːk /

verb

1. to engage, request, or ask for in advance
2. to indicate or suggest

   this act bespeaks kindness

3. poetic.
   to speak to; address
4. archaic.
   to foretell

Word History and Origins

Origin of bespeak¹

before 900; Middle English bespeken, Old English besprecan. See be-, speak

Example Sentences

Strange and complicated rhythm structures and overheated harmonies, along with mystic bird calls in the piano all bespeak the magic of his young love.

From Los Angeles Times

The award should go to “The Zone of Interest,” a brilliantly counterintuitive adaptation that bespeaks Jonathan Glazer’s seriousness and thoughtfulness at every turn.

From Los Angeles Times

It also bespeaks a certain arrogance, the notion that voters can’t be trusted to make the right decision by rejecting Trump.

From Los Angeles Times

Those who say they sleep well are a little bashful, as if their easy rest bespeaks a too-cosseted mind, a too-simple life.

From New York Times

“It bespeaks a really, really big misunderstanding,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• imply