be

UK: biː | US: biː

Definition
  1. v. (linking verb) to exist; to occupy a position or state

  2. v. (auxiliary verb) used to form continuous tenses or passive voice

Structure
meaning <to exist>
Etymology

The word "be" originates from Old English "bēon," which was one of several verbs meaning "to exist" or "to become." It is part of the Indo-European root *bʰuH-, meaning "to grow" or "to become," shared with Latin "fieri" (to become) and Greek "phuein" (to bring forth). Over time, "be" absorbed functions from other Old English verbs like "wesan" (to remain) and became the primary verb for existence and state in Modern English. Its irregular conjugation reflects its ancient roots and merger of multiple verb forms.

Examples
  1. She wants to be a doctor when she grows up.

  2. The meeting will be held tomorrow.

  3. They are happy with the results.

  4. This might be the best solution.

  5. To be or not to be, that is the question.