Bestreak

/bɪˈstrik/ verb

Definition

To streak or mark with lines or bands; to make streaks on something.

Etymology

From the prefix 'be-' plus 'streak' (a line or mark, from Old Norse 'strikja' meaning 'to go, spread'). The 'be-' prefix indicates covering with or making streaks.

Kelly Says

Words like 'bestreak' are poetic rather than practical—you might see them in old literature describing something 'bestreaked with blood' or 'bestreaked with rain,' but modern writers would usually just say 'streaked,' showing how English has streamlined over time.

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