WordGarden.iobehold
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /bɪhˈəʊld/
US
- /bɪˈhoʊld/
Meanings
Verb
to look at or see something, often with focused or dramatic attention
Interjection
look at this; pay attention to what is being presented
Beyond the definition
"Behold!" isn't something you hear every day, but when you do, it is usually announcing something impressive or noteworthy. It's a dramatic way of saying "look"—like a magician revealing a trick or a king presenting his crown jewels. Think of it as an old-fashioned exclamation urging someone to really see what is before them. You might "behold" a stunning sunset, a magnificent castle, or even just a perfectly baked pie! It carries a sense of awe and invitation.
"Behold" is a literary and somewhat archaic word meaning "to see" or "to observe," but it is far more than a simple synonym for "look." It is often used as a dramatic exclamation to draw attention to something remarkable, beautiful, or significant. Its roots lie in Old English, and the word carries with it a sense of formality, reverence, and even wonder.
Historically, "behold" was frequently used in religious texts and epic poetry—think of biblical pronouncements ("Behold, I bring you good news!") or Shakespearean speeches. It is meant to command attention, not just to describe passive observation. It suggests that something is worthy of special notice, creating a moment to pause and truly see.
While less common in everyday conversation today, "behold" still appears when writers want to evoke a sense of grandeur, mystery, or old-world charm. You might read, "Behold the majestic mountains!" or "Behold, a solution to our problems!" It is a word that elevates the act of seeing into something more profound—an invitation to witness something extraordinary. To behold something is not just to glance at it; it is to be presented with something worthy of your full attention and admiration.
Examples
- 1
Formal seeing
From the balcony, we beheld the whole city glowing at sunset.
- Usage
behold is formal or literary; everyday English usually says saw
- 2
Poetic vision
At the end of the poem, the speaker beholds a vision of peace.
- 3
Surprising discovery
I pulled back the curtain and, lo and behold, the cat was asleep in the sink.
- Phraselo and behold
used when something surprising appears or happens
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- beholdverb
Forms
- beheldpast tensepast participleverb
- beholding-ing formverb
- beholdsverb