to befit
- verb
- /bɪˈfɪt/
- This court does not consider such behavior befitting an officer of the German Navy.
- befits a king
- befits their status
- manner that befits
Examples
-
His eyes and his cheeks were so fused with a gracious gladness, and his aspect was of such kindness as befits a tender father.
-
Wally, however, was quite cordial, as befitted his new status as a man of means.
Fiction book (1993) -
Records were played, mostly slow, romantic songs, befitting a hot southern summer night.
Fiction book (1999) -
And, besides, I've had no training that would befit me for the responsibilities of such a life.
-
His dress was to befit his station in life, avoiding both expensive fabrics and bright colors.
Academic text (2004) -
"Bring me a tribute befitting the magnitude of the service I shall perform."
Fiction book (1994) -
It would only be befitting if you would join us.
-
"Department vehicles," he thundered, "must be kept in a condition befitting the Department."
Fiction book (2000) -
You are hereby ordered to display dignity befitting the solemnity of the occasion.
-
You are hereby ordered to display dignity befitting the solemnity of the occasion.
Synonyms
To match or go well with something
To be good for someone's needs or plans
To be right for a specific purpose or need
To be suitable for a person or occasion
How Suitable
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Befit is made of the small prefix be- and the common word fit, which means 'suitable' or 'right'. So to befit someone is to 'be right for' them or to be the proper thing for a person or situation.