bequeath
UK: bɪˈkwiːð | US: bɪˈkwiːθ
vt. to leave (property, assets, or personal belongings) to someone through a legal will
vt. to pass down (knowledge, traditions, etc.) to future generations
The word "bequeath" originates from Old English becwethan, combining be- (thoroughly) and cwethan (to declare). It originally meant "to declare formally," especially in the context of a will. Over time, the meaning narrowed to its modern legal sense of transferring property or legacy through a will. The root queath is archaic but survives in the poetic "quoth," highlighting its connection to speech and declaration.
She decided to bequeath her entire estate to charity.
Ancient cultures bequeathed their wisdom through oral traditions.
The artist bequeathed his paintings to the national museum.
He formally bequeathed the family heirlooms to his eldest son.
The constitution bequeaths certain rights to all citizens.