verb

bestow

bih-STOH

verb

To give something formally or ceremonially, often as an honour.

"The university bestowed an honorary degree on the retiring professor."

"The king bestowed a title on the loyal knight."

How to Use Bestow

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo formally give or grant something, often as an honour or gift.

When to use it

Fairly formal; used for awards, titles, and honours more than everyday gifts.

Common pairings

bestow an honour bestow a title bestow a gift upon someone

Word Forms

bestowed past tense, bestow plural, bestowed plural, bestows plural, bestows singular, bestow singular, bestowed singular, bestowest singular, bestowedst singular, bestoweth singular

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The university _____ an honorary degree on the retiring professor.

Etymology

From Middle English bestowen, built from "be-" plus "stow" ("to place or pack away") — originally meaning to put something in its proper place.