Word of the day: Betide

Betide

[bə-TAHYD]

Part of speech: verb

Origin: Middle English, mid-1100s.

(Literary) Happen.

(With object) Happen to (someone).

Examples of betide in a sentence

"The couple promised to remain loyal to each other, whatever events may betide them."

"Woe betide any student who forgot their homework on the final day of class."

About Betide

This word originated from the now-obsolete Middle English word "tide" ("befall"), which in turn came from the Old English word "tīdan" ("happen").

Did you Know?

The phrase “woe betide you” comes from the common use of this medieval word. The word “tide” originated from the obsolete Old English word “tīdan,” used to mean “befall,” while “woe” means “distress.” When combined together, these words are meant to warn someone of the possible consequences of their bad behavior.