bedew

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/bɪˈdjuː/

Definitions

1. To wet or moisten something with a fine spray or drops of liquid.

2. To cover or saturate with moisture, especially in the form of dew.

Usage Examples

1. The morning fog bedewed the grass with tiny droplets.

2. Her eyes were bedewed with tears as she read the letter.

3. The petals of the flowers were bedewed with fresh dew after the night.

Etymology

Originates from Middle English "bedewen", from the Old English "bedewian", from "be-" meaning "thoroughly" and "dew" (the natural moisture that forms on surfaces).

Synonyms

moisten, dampen, wet, soak, sprinkle, saturate

Antonyms

dry, dehydrate, drain, parch, desiccate

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In British English, the "e" in "bedew" is pronounced with a shorter "e" sound, whereas American English tends to use a slightly longer "e" sound in informal speech.

Historical Usage

The term "bedew" was first used in the 14th century and originally referred to the natural process of dew forming on plants or other surfaces overnight, signifying a light misting or wetting. Over time, its usage expanded metaphorically to mean any form of moistening, whether natural or artificial.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, "bedew" can also have symbolic meaning, especially when referring to a "bedewed" face or surface in literature, often suggesting an emotional or spiritual transformation, such as the manifestation of tears or the purity of nature's morning dew.

More Information

The verb "bedew" is used primarily in literary contexts today, evoking a sense of gentleness or delicacy. Its usage tends to invoke imagery of nature and the natural world, such as dew forming on a morning flower. It can also be used to describe emotional states, such as eyes "bedewed with tears" during moments of sorrow or joy. Despite its poetic connotations, the word can be applied in both figurative and literal senses, making it versatile in descriptive language.