Begird

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/bɪˈɡɜːrd/

Definitions

1. To surround or encircle with a girdle or belt, typically used in the context of clothing or attire.
2. To encompass or enclose as if with a girdle, often used in a metaphorical sense.
3. To equip or adorn oneself with a girdle or similar item, often used in a figurative or archaic sense.

Usage Examples

• She begirded herself with a fine belt before entering the ceremony.
• The castle was begirded by a massive stone wall, offering protection to the inhabitants.
• In ancient times, warriors would begird themselves with armor before going into battle.

Etymology

The word 'begird' is derived from the Middle English 'begirden,' which is a combination of 'be-' (a prefix meaning 'around' or 'about') and 'gird,' meaning a belt or a cord. The verb form appeared in English around the 14th century, influenced by Old French 'girer' (to gird), and has historically referred to encircling or surrounding something with a belt or similar item.

Synonyms

• Encircle
• Surround
• Enclose
• Adorn
• Wrap

Antonyms

• Unbind
• Release
• Unwrap
• Expose
• Open

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the pronunciation /bɪˈɡɜːrd/ is often articulated with a clear enunciation of the "g" sound.
• In American English, the word is pronounced similarly, but the "r" sound may be softer, especially in rapid speech.
• In Australian English, the pronunciation might be a bit more clipped, especially in informal contexts, but remains essentially the same.

Historical Usage

Begird was commonly used in Middle English texts, often referring to the act of surrounding or encircling something, especially in a physical sense like wearing a belt. It also had metaphorical connotations of protecting or defending, seen in historical references to warriors and their gear. Over time, the use of 'begird' became less common, with the modern equivalent 'gird' taking prominence.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the act of girding oneself is symbolic of preparation for a serious or important task. For example, in medieval European cultures, warriors would "gird" themselves with armor before battle. In spiritual or religious contexts, girding might symbolize readiness to face challenges, as in the biblical "gird your loins" phrase, which means to prepare oneself for a demanding or difficult task.

More Information

The word 'begird' is rarely used in modern English but appears in historical and literary contexts. It often carries connotations of encircling or preparing, with a strong historical association to the notion of equipping oneself for important actions. The word shares its roots with 'gird' and 'girdle,' both of which have similarly evolved in English to denote items worn around the waist, as well as the act of encircling or protecting.