Bequeath

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /bɪˈkwiːθ/, /bɪˈkwiːð/
• Rhymes: -iːð or Rhymes: -iːθ

Origin

From Middle English bequethen, from Old English becweþan ("to say, to speak to, address, exhort, admonish, blame, bequeath, leave by will"), equivalent to - + quethe.

Full definition of bequeath

Verb

1. (legal) To give or leave by will; to give by testament.
2. To hand down; to transmit.
3. To give; to offer; to commit.

Usage notes

(give or leave by will) The verb bequeath is usually used of personal property; for real property, the term devise is preferred.

Related terms

• quethe
• quoth
• bequest