Bespy

/bɪˈspaɪ/ verb

Definition

Archaic: to catch sight of; to spot or perceive something after searching.

Etymology

From 'be-' (prefix) + 'spy' (to catch sight of). The prefix may intensify the verb or suggest completion of the spying action.

Kelly Says

Though archaic, 'bespy' appears in Renaissance literature—'I bespy a ship on the horizon'—and shows how the 'be-' prefix once allowed writers to subtly shift the meaning of common verbs to suit meter and tone.

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