To cover or decorate with spangles; to make sparkle or glitter with shiny ornaments.
From 'be-' (to cover) plus 'spangle' (a small shiny sequin or ornament). 'Spangle' comes from Middle Dutch 'spangel,' possibly related to 'span' (a clasp). The be- prefix creates a causative verb meaning to cover with spangles.
The word 'spangle' itself is onomatopoetic-adjacent—the 'sp-' and '-angle' sounds mimicked the sharp glint of metal ornaments, and 'bespangle' captures that shimmering visual in a way that describes both the object and its effect.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.