bespeak

verb

be·​speak bi-ˈspēk 

bē-

bespoke bi-ˈspōk 

bē-

; bespoken bi-ˈspō-kən 

bē-

; bespeaking

transitive verb

1

: to hire, engage, or claim beforehand

2

: to speak to especially with formality : address

3

: request

bespeak a favor

4

a

: indicate, signify

her performance bespeaks considerable practice

b

: to show beforehand : foretell

Synonyms of bespeak

• book

Examples of bespeak in a Sentence

Her newest album bespeaks a great talent for writing songs.

bespoke the rental car weeks in advance of their trip

Recent Examples on the Web

Art What to call objects that bespeak both the three-dimensionality of sculpture and the surface drama of painting? —Vince Aletti, New Yorker, 17 Apr. 2026

Planning and thievery on this scale bespeaks a ring of metal poaching. —Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times, 2 Apr. 2026

Known for its delicate texture and plain looks, this pie bespeaks old-school Southern class and charm. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2026

That bespeaks too of very capable direction. —Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 2 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for bespeak

• antique
• batik
• boutique
• cacique
• comique
• critique
• grosbeak
• midweek
• mystique
• oblique
• physique
• pratique

Kids Definition

bespeak

verb

be·​speak bi-ˈspēk 

bespoke -ˈspōk  ; bespoken -ˈspō-kən  ; bespeaking

1

: to ask or arrange for in advance

2

: to make plain : show

her performance bespeaks much practice