beget
UK: bɪˈɡet | US: bɪˈɡet
vt. to produce or cause something to exist (often used for offspring or abstract consequences)
vt. (archaic) to father or sire a child
The word "beget" originates from Old English begietan, combining the prefix be- (indicating thoroughness or causation) and gietan (to get or obtain). Over time, its meaning narrowed to focus on procreation or causing something to come into existence. The prefix be- intensifies the action, while get retains its core sense of acquisition or production. This reflects the word’s evolution from a general term for obtaining to one specifically tied to generating offspring or consequences.
The king hoped to beget an heir to continue his lineage.
Poverty often begets more poverty in cyclical patterns.
(Archaic) He begot three sons before his death.
Innovation begets progress in technology.
The scandal begot widespread distrust in the government.