bestow

[bih-stoh]

verb (used with object)

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

   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)

Other Word Forms

• bestowal noun
• bestowment noun
• misbestow verb (used with object)
• prebestow verb (used with object)
• prebestowal noun
• bestower noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bestow¹

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

Example Sentences

But the singer said his connection to fans was more important than any of the other honours bestowed upon him.

Read more on BBC

I can't say that my own stubborn, disobedient terrier provides me with any of the benefits that the first domesticated wolves bestowed on our ancestors.

Read more on BBC

Why, for that matter, were Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s willing to bless 80 percent of a pool of dicey mortgage loans with the same triple-A rating they bestowed on the debts of the U.S.

Read more on Literature

“We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others,” the statement continued.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In response to outcry over the plan to include Suharto, Prabowo's office had insisted he has the right to bestow the title upon whomever he chooses.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

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