Definition

To give or leave personal property to someone through a will after one's death.

Example

She decided to bequeath her jewelry to her daughter.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about what my grandfather decided to bequeath us in his will?

No, what did he leave you?

He bequeathed his old watch, and I'm really excited to have it.

That's awesome! It's great to have something so meaningful from him.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bequeath → It is formed from "be-" (meaning about or around) and "cweðan" (an Old English word meaning to say or declare). The word originally referred to the act of declaring or saying what one wishes to leave to others after death.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'declaring' ('cweðan') their wishes about what to give to others 'around' them ('be-') after they are gone.

Visually Confused Words