Bestick

/bɪˈstɪk/ verb

Definition

To stick or pierce with something sharp; to cover or stud with sticks or pointed objects.

Etymology

From be- (prefix meaning to cause or make) + stick. Old English be- prefix combined with Germanic stick, creating a verb meaning to perforate or decorate with pointed objects.

Kelly Says

This is an archaic verb that shows how the be- prefix (like in 'besmirch' or 'befriend') could attach to almost any noun or verb in English—medieval writers would say 'bestick with arrows' where we'd say 'stuck with arrows,' showing a more productive prefix system than modern English preserves.

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