bestow
UK: bɪˈstəʊ | US: bɪˈstoʊ
vt. to give or present something as a gift or honor
vt. to apply or devote (time, effort, etc.) to a purpose
bestow = be<around, thoroughly> + stow<place>
- be: A prefix from Old English, often intensifying or transforming the root verb’s meaning (here, implying thoroughness or completion).
- stow: Derived from Old English stōw ("place"), originally meaning "to arrange or store." Combined with be, it evolved to mean "to place/give something formally."
Etymology Origin:
The word bestow emerged in Middle English (14th century) from the idea of "placing something securely" (be- + stow). Over time, it shifted from literal placement to the figurative act of granting or conferring (e.g., gifts, titles). The prefix be- added a sense of completion, turning stow’s neutral "place" into a deliberate act of giving.
The king decided to bestow a knighthood upon the brave soldier.
She bestowed her entire collection of books to the local library.
The committee bestowed the award for outstanding innovation.
He bestowed great care on raising his children.
The title was bestowed posthumously in recognition of his contributions.