From Middle English beholden, from Old English behealdan, meaning to hold, keep, or observe. It combines the prefix be- with healdan, the ancestor of hold. The sense moved from keeping or holding attention to looking at something carefully.
From Middle English beholden, from Old English behealdan, meaning to hold, keep, or observe. It combines the prefix be- with healdan, the ancestor of hold. The sense moved from keeping or holding attention to looking at something carefully.
What does behold mean?
It means to see, look at, or gaze upon something. It can also call attention, as in Behold!
Is behold old-fashioned?
Yes. It is literary or old-fashioned in most modern uses, though it still appears for dramatic or playful effect.
What is the past tense of behold?
The past tense is beheld.
What does a sight to behold mean?
It means something impressive, beautiful, strange, or memorable to look at.
Is it lo and behold or low and behold?
The correct phrase is lo and behold.
What are synonyms of behold?
Synonyms include see, look at, view, observe, gaze at, and regard.
Can behold be an interjection?
Yes. Behold! can be used to tell people to look or pay attention, usually in an old-fashioned or dramatic style.