bespread

American  

[bih-spred] / bɪˈsprɛd /

verb (used with object)

bespread, bespreading

1. to spread over (a surface); cover (usually followed bywith ).

   a table bespread with fine linens.

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bespread British  

/ bɪˈsprɛd /

verb

1. (tr) to cover (a surface) with something

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Etymology

Origin of bespread

First recorded in 1350–1400, bespread is from the Middle English word bespreden. See be-, spread

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

bespread bespreading

All this sudden extinction of light in the gay Ca’ Bembo, where I saw the silks bespread before your knowledge and my ignorance!

From The Brownings Their Life and Art by Whiting, Lilian

The numerous ornaments, also, with which the hoops were bespread and decorated—the festoons—the tassels—the rich embroidery—all of a most catching and taking nature, every now and then affectionately hitched together in unpremeditated and close embrace.

From The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, and Instruction Volume 13, No. 353, January 24, 1829 by Various

Over his death hath sprung to life that curious fabric of living generosity, so ready to bespread a grave with unneeded bounties,—so emblematic of how many false mourners hath the dead.

From Our World, Or, the Slaveholder's Daughter by Adams, F. Colburn (Francis Colburn)

The old man brought him into one of the parlours, which was variegated with many-coloured marbles, the ceiling thereof being decorated with ultramarine and glowing gold; and the floor bespread with silken carpets.

From The Book of the Thousand Nights and a Night — Volume 06 by Burton, Richard Francis, Sir

They did his bidding and carried the Youth in procession to her and he found the apartment bespread with carpets and perfumed with essences; the bride, however, was absent.

From The Book of the Thousand Nights and a Night — Volume 14 by Burton, Richard Francis, Sir

And now he hands each a mug of steaming punch, which they welcomely receive, a glow of satisfaction bespreading his face, telling with what sincerity he gives it.

From Our World, Or, the Slaveholder's Daughter by Adams, F. Colburn (Francis Colburn)