Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/bɪˈkwɛst/

Definitions

• 1. A legacy or gift left to someone in a will, typically involving personal property, money, or an asset.
• 2. The act of bequeathing property or assets to a person or organization, typically after death.

Usage Examples

• Her bequest to the charity helped fund the new library.
• He made a bequest in his will to ensure his children’s education.

Etymology

Derived from Middle English "biqueste," which means "bequest" or "legacy," and from Old French "biquest," meaning "legacy, inheritance." The root comes from the Latin "bequeath," which means "to say or speak" (from "be-" meaning "about" and "cweðan," meaning "to speak"). The term refers to the verbal or written act of leaving something for another after one's death.

Synonyms

• Legacy
• Inheritance
• Gift
• Endowment
• Donation

Antonyms

• Retention
• Withholding
• Seizure
• Confiscation

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• North American English: /bɪˈkwɛst/
• British English: /bɪˈkwɛst/
• Australian English: /bɪˈkwɛst/

Historical Usage

The term "bequest" has been used in legal and estate planning contexts since the 14th century. It refers to the distribution of a person's assets after their death according to their will or testament. In the Middle Ages, bequests often involved large estates, land, and possessions, and were a means of ensuring that wealth remained within a family or was passed on to important causes.

Cultural Nuances

Bequests are of significant cultural importance, particularly in societies where inheritance laws and family lineage play key roles. In many cultures, the bequest of property or wealth represents a final act of care and intention, aiming to provide for loved ones or uphold familial legacies. The notion of "family heirlooms" or property passed down through generations is deeply intertwined with the concept of bequest.

More Information

The word "bequest" is most often associated with legal documents such as wills, where it refers to a gift or legacy left to a person or organization after death. The term highlights the legal and formal nature of this type of gift, as opposed to a general gift or donation. In contemporary usage, "bequest" is commonly used when referring to charitable donations made by individuals as part of their estate planning, further emphasizing its significance in the context of legacy and philanthropy.