Behove

/bɪˈhoʊv/ verb

Definition

To be necessary or proper for someone; variant spelling of behoove.

Etymology

Variant of 'behoove' from Old English 'behófian,' related to Old Norse 'behófa.' Both forms have identical meaning but 'behoove' is more common in modern English.

Kelly Says

The spelling variants 'behoove' vs. 'behove' reflect different historical developments and preferences—some writers preferred dropping the extra 'o,' much like how 'favour' varies from 'favor' in British vs. American English.

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