behoove

UK: bɪˈhuːv | US: bɪˈhuːv

Definition
  1. vt. to be necessary, proper, or advantageous for (someone)

  2. vt. to be morally required or fitting (archaic)

Structure
be <about, around>hoove <advantage, benefit>
Etymology

The word "behoove" originates from Old English behōfian, meaning "to have need of." It combines the prefix be- (indicating relevance or necessity) with hōf (benefit or advantage). Over time, the sense evolved from literal necessity to moral or situational propriety, particularly in formal or archaic contexts. The root hōf is also linked to modern German behufen (to need) and Dutch behoeven (to be necessary).

Examples
  1. It would behoove you to arrive early for the interview.

  2. Such actions behoove a responsible leader.

  3. It behooves us to consider the environmental impact.

  4. In medieval times, humility behooved a knight.

  5. It does not behoove a doctor to neglect patients.