betide

American  

[bih-tahyd] / bɪˈtaɪd /

verb (used with object)

betided, betiding

1. to happen to; come to; befall.

   Woe betide the villain!

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verb (used without object)

betided, betiding

1. to happen; come to pass.

   Whatever betides, maintain your courage.

betide British  

/ bɪˈtaɪd /

verb

1. to happen or happen to; befall (often in the phrase woe betide ( someone ))

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Etymology

Origin of betide

First recorded in 1125–75, betide is from the Middle English word betiden. See be-, tide ²

Example Sentences

A certain life was expected for you, and woe betide you if you went outside of that.

From Los Angeles Times

And woe betide any member of the cabinet who upset his mistress.

From BBC

Woe betide the grounds passholder who shows up at the “wrong” entrance; you may be made to walk several blocks, though several on Monday attempted to argue with U.N. police.

From Seattle Times

"Woe betide you if you were a preacher and you misquoted," Lord Sentamu says.

From BBC

Woe betide the civic leader in a company town who threatens to buck the company’s interests.

From Los Angeles Times