Behold

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/bɪˈhoʊld/

Definitions

1. Verb: To see or observe something, especially something of great significance or awe.
2. Verb: To hold in one's view or perception.
3. Verb (archaic): To look at or gaze upon with attention.

Usage Examples

• "Behold the beauty of the sunset!"
• "He beheld the vast landscape from the mountaintop."
• "The moment of victory was one to behold."

Etymology

The word "behold" originates from Old English "behealdan," meaning "to hold in view" or "to observe." It is a combination of "be-" (a prefix that intensifies meaning) and "healdan" (which means "to hold"). The word has been used for centuries in both literal and figurative senses to indicate the act of looking with attention.

Synonyms

• See
• Observe
• View
• Look at
• Perceive

Antonyms

• Ignore
• Overlook
• Disregard
• Neglect

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "behold" is often pronounced with a slightly stronger emphasis on the first syllable: /bɪˈhoʊld/.
• In British English, the pronunciation remains the same but is often enunciated more clearly, with balanced syllable stress.

Historical Usage

Historically, "behold" was used in both everyday and literary contexts, often to describe the act of observing something important or extraordinary. It has appeared in numerous texts, including religious and philosophical works, where it signifies the act of seeing something with profound significance. "Behold" has also been used in rhetorical contexts to draw attention to an object or idea. Today, it is more commonly found in formal, poetic, or archaic language.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, "behold" is associated with moments of awe, reverence, or divine experience. It is often used in religious texts or ceremonies to describe the act of witnessing something powerful or sublime. The term is typically used in contexts where the act of seeing carries greater importance than the simple visual perception of an object. It is used to draw attention to something worthy of admiration or reflection.

More Information

The word "behold" remains a striking part of the English language, especially when used to capture a moment of awe or admiration. While its usage has become less common in everyday speech, it still appears in poetic and literary expressions. Understanding the cultural and historical contexts of "behold" provides insight into how language shapes our perceptions of significance and beauty.