bestows

Bestows is the third-person singular present tense of the verb bestow. It means to confer or present something, such as a gift, honor, right, or quality, to someone, typically as part of a formal or ceremonial act.

The verb derives from Old English roots related to placing or putting something in a place. The sense of giving or granting arose from the idea of placing something with someone. The exact origin is uncertain, but the word has long been associated with formal transfers of value or status.

Bestow is transitive and generally requires a direct object (the thing given) and often the recipient, with on or upon. It is more formal than ordinary verbs like give and is common in official or literary writing. Examples: "The committee bestowed the award on the scientist." "They bestowed upon her the title of ambassador." In contemporary usage, it can also apply to gifts, blessings, or privileges.

Related forms include bestowal or bestowment (the act of bestowing) and the noun bestower (the person who bestows). In religious or ceremonial contexts, "God bestows" is a common construction.