bestow

Bestow is a transitive verb meaning to grant or present something to someone, often as a gift, honor, or blessing. The act is typically phrased as bestowing something on or upon someone. The term carries a formal or ceremonial tone and is common in official, literary, or religious contexts. Objects commonly bestowed include honors, awards, titles, blessings, gifts, or opportunities. In modern usage, both “on” and “upon” are acceptable, though “upon” is the traditional form: “The king bestowed knighthood upon the captain.”

Etymology and sense development: Bestow originates from Old English in forms related to placing or putting down, with the extended sense of granting or venerating through the act of presenting something to someone.

Usage notes: Bestow is typically used for deliberate, meaningful acts of giving rather than casual transfers. It emphasizes the significance or generosity of the giver. It tends to appear in formal writing or ceremonial contexts, and is less common in everyday conversation where “give” or “grant” might be used.

Related forms: bestowment or bestowal (the act of bestowing), bestower (one who bestows). The noun forms convey the notion of a formal or ceremonial transfer.

Synonyms and nuances: Similar to confer, grant, present, or donate, but bestow often implies a ceremonial or honorific connotation. It is distinct from merely giving or distributing by highlighting the social or ceremonial importance of the transfer.

Examples: The foundation bestowed scholarships on deserving students. The monarch bestowed the title of duke upon the nobleman.