Vocabulary Spotlight
Bequeathing
Part of Speech: Verb (present participle)
Definition: The act of leaving or giving personal property, belongings, or other assets to another person in a will.
“He is bequeathing his estate to his children, ensuring their future security.”
Pronunciation
[bih-kweeth-ing]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Passing on
Endowing
Entrusting
Bestowing
Antonyms
Retaining
Keeping
Refusing
Denying
Related Words
Legacy
Endowment
Word Origin
“Bequeath” comes from Old English “becwethan,” meaning “to declare or give by will,” and “bequeathing” is the act of leaving property to someone.
Word Family
Verb: Bequeath – To leave as an inheritance.
Noun: Bequest – The item or property being passed down.
Noun: Beneficiary – The person who receives a bequest.
Mnemonics
Think of “be-queath-ing” as “be + giving” – to be in the act of giving something important to someone else.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In legal contexts, “bequeathing” specifies the formal act of leaving assets in a will.
Philanthropy
Philanthropists often focus on bequeathing funds to charities as part of their legacy planning.
Family Wealth
In wealth management, bequeathing is a key part of passing assets to future generations.
In Context
“Bequeathing” refers to the act of leaving items or assets to others, often through a will, signifying a lasting legacy or gesture of care for future generations.