bestow (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /bɪˈstoʊ/

Definition

To give something, especially something important or valuable, to someone.

Examples

• The university will bestow an honorary degree on the renowned scientist.

• The government decided to bestow a special award on the Olympic athletes.

• She was honored to have the queen bestow her favor upon the charity.

How to Use bestow

bestow on/upon (prepositional phrase)

To give something to someone. — "The award was bestowed upon the most outstanding student."

bestow [something] (collocation)

To give a specific item or quality. — "The king bestowed his full confidence on his new minister."

Synonyms of bestow

Words with a similar meaning to bestow:

• give
• grant
• confer
• endow

Antonyms of bestow

Words with the opposite meaning to bestow:

• withhold
• deprive

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