How Do You Spell BEDFELLOW?

Pronunciation: [bˈɛdfɪlˌə͡ʊ] (IPA)

The word "bedfellow" is spelled with three syllables: /ˈbɛdˌfɛloʊ/. The first syllable is "bed", pronounced as /bɛd/, which refers to a piece of furniture for sleeping. The second syllable is "fel", pronounced as /fɛl/, which comes from the Old English word "feolaga" meaning a companion or partner. The last syllable is "low", pronounced as /loʊ/, which adds the meaning of closeness or intimacy. Together, these syllables form "bedfellow", meaning a person who shares a bed with another person.

BEDFELLOW Meaning and Definition

1. Bedfellow is a noun that refers to a person with whom one shares a bed or is in a close relationship, usually of an intimate nature. The term can also describe someone with whom one is allied or associated, often for convenience or mutual benefit.

   The primary definition of bedfellow revolves around its literal meaning of someone sharing a bed. This can be a romantic partner, spouse, or simply a person with whom one shares sleeping quarters. It connotes a close physical proximity, suggesting a level of comfort and familiarity between the individuals involved.

   Metaphorically, bedfellow can also describe someone who is closely associated with another person or group. This secondary definition highlights the idea of a shared alliance or mutual cooperation. It often implies that the association is not necessarily based on deep personal affection, but rather on practical benefits or common interests. For example, politicians from different parties may occasionally find themselves as bedfellows when they collaborate on a specific issue or legislation.

   Overall, the term bedfellow describes both a literal and figurative relationship where individuals or groups are brought together by shared spaces, interests, or affiliations, whether in a physical or abstract sense.

2. One who lies in the same bed.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for BEDFELLOW

• vedfellow
• nedfellow
• hedfellow
• gedfellow
• bwdfellow
• bsdfellow
• bddfellow
• bedfello
• bedflelow
• bedfelloww
• odfellow
• bedfelowe
• bedfilow
• bedfolow
• bedfelwos
• bedffelow

Etymology of BEDFELLOW

The word "bedfellow" originally comes from Old English. It is a combination of two words: "bedd", which means "bed", and "fellow", which means "companion" or "partner". Therefore, "bedfellow" initially referred to a person with whom one shares a bed, often used in a literal sense. However, over time, the term evolved beyond its literal meaning and can now be used figuratively to describe someone who is closely associated or partnered with another person, even if they don't share an actual bed.

Similar spelling word for BEDFELLOW

• bed pillow.

Plural form of BEDFELLOW is BEDFELLOWS