plural bevies
1
: a large group or collection
a bevy of girls
2
: a group of animals and especially quail

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What makes up a bevy?

Bevy makes its appearance in Middle English as a word used especially for a group of deer, quail, larks, or young ladies. Etymologists aren't certain why bevy was chosen for those groups (though they have theories). Today, bevies include any person or thing—e.g., "a bevy of reporters," "a bevy of menu choices."

Examples of bevy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Trump’s victory comes amid a bevy of unresolved legal battles that have clouded his campaign despite its success so far. Kendrick Marshall, Charlotte Observer, 6 Mar. 2024 Tower Suite guests receive preferred seating at the beach and pools, along with exclusive access to the Top of The Tower, a private lounge on the 27th floor where a bevy of global bites and complimentary drinks are offered throughout the day and evening. Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 2024 IndyStar found the quote amid a bevy of bricks in a garden outside the building. The Indianapolis Star, 29 Feb. 2024 As the two own a bevy of new wins on the tally, the hip-hop powerhouse advances on an all-time ranking and passes one of his colleagues. Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2024 Alabama's tradition of winning has fueled other parts of its football history, from legendary moments in national championship games to a bevy of players who have gone on to star in the NFL. Tom Schad, USA TODAY, 22 Feb. 2024 The first Borderlands trailer puts a bevy of A-listers on Pandora, the most dangerous planet in the universe. Aaron Couch, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Feb. 2024 Gould has served as a top executive for five-and-a-half years, overseeing a bevy of sports and internal operations. Jon Wilner, The Mercury News, 19 Feb. 2024 The designer presented his fall-winter 2024 collection, and the front row attracted a bevy of celebs. Lea Hüttinger, Glamour, 14 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'bevy.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bevey

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bevy was in the 15th century

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Dictionary Entries Near bevy

Cite this Entry

“Bevy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bevy. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

bevy

noun
plural bevies
: a large group
a bevy of girls

More from Merriam-Webster on bevy

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