© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

vouchsafe

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈvaʊtʃseɪf/

KK: /ˈvaʊtʃseɪf/

transitive verb
Definition

To grant or give something, often in a way that shows it is a favor or privilege.


Example

The king chose to vouchsafe his blessing to the couple on their wedding day.


Tense Forms

Past: vouchsafed

Past Participle: vouchsafed


Conversation
Sloth A
I wonder if she would vouchsafe us some of her knowledge about the project.
Sloth B
I think she might! She's always been generous with her insights.
Sloth A
Yeah, it would be great if she would vouchsafe a few tips that could help us.
Sloth B
Absolutely! Let's ask her during the meeting later.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grant
bestow
concede
Antonyms
withhold
deny
refuse
Root Explanation

Vouchsafe → It is formed from "vouch" (from Old French *vouchier*, meaning to call or summon) and "safe" (from Old English *sæf*, meaning secure or protected). The word means to grant or give something in a gracious or condescending manner, as if bestowing a favor.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'calling' ('vouch') to 'secure' ('safe') a favor for another — that's why vouchsafe means to graciously grant something.

Visually Confused Words
unvouchsafed
Is this page helpful?