verb / interjection
behold
bih-HOHLD/bɪˈhəʊld/
To look at or notice something, especially something remarkable.
The traveler stops to behold the waterfall.
Etymology
With be-, “hold” formed a verb meaning “hold in view” or “give regard to.” The connection is keeping something before one's attention rather than physically grasping it.
In context
Oh child, behold me on my knees, I'll follow thee. Oh, do not leave me thus,
More examples
- They beheld a wide valley beyond the ridge.
- The crowd gathered to behold the rare flower.
- The finished work was a sight to behold.
Forms
behold · beholds · beheld · beholding
Similar words
- observe
- See or notice.
- look at
- The ordinary equivalent.