bestow

be·stow

transitive verb \bi-ˈstō, bē-\

Definition of BESTOW

1

: to put to use : apply <bestowed his spare time on study>

2

: to put in a particular or appropriate place : stow

3

: to provide with quarters : put up

4

: to convey as a gift —usually used with on or upon

— be·stow·al \-ˈstō-əl\ noun

— be·stow·er \-ˈstō(-ə)r\ noun

Examples of BESTOW

1. The university bestowed on her an honorary degree.
2. <bestowed a new car on their son for graduation>

Origin of BESTOW

Middle English, from be- + stowe place — more at stow

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to BESTOW

Synonyms

give, contribute, donate, give away, present, volunteer

Related Words

chip in, kick in, pitch in, throw in; award, confer, endow, endue (or indue), render; afford, comp, furnish, provide; lavish, regale; aid, assist, benefit, help; administer, dish out, dispense, dole out, hand out, impart, issue, mete (out); extend, fork (over, out, or up), offer, pay, proffer, pungle (up), put up, tender; sacrifice

Near Antonyms

hold, keep, pocket, retain, withhold; preserve, save; advance, lend, loan; sell

See Synonym Discussion at give