Pronunciation: [bɪhˈɛld] (IPA) 
Beheld is a past tense form of the verb "behold", which means to see or observe something. The spelling of "beheld" is influenced by the silent "h" at the beginning of the word. The IPA phonetic transcription for "be-held" is /bɪˈhɛld/. This means that the first syllable is pronounced as "bih" with a short "i" sound, while the second syllable is pronounced as "held" with a short "e" sound. Overall, the word is pronounced as bih-held.
Beheld is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "behold." It refers to the action of visually perceiving or observing something or someone. When an individual beholds something, they are acknowledging its presence with their sight and taking it into consideration. This term often implies a sense of awe, wonder, or admiration in response to that which is being viewed.
The word "beheld" encompasses the act of consciously and deliberately focusing one's attention on an object, person, or scene. It suggests a deeper level of engagement than merely glancing or looking, as it implies a fixed gaze, concentration, or contemplation. Beholding can involve observing with both intention and intensity, allowing the viewer to perceive and appreciate the details, qualities, or significance of the subject at hand.
Furthermore, "beheld" can evoke a sense of capturing or cherishing a rare or fleeting sight, as if something extraordinary or significant is being witnessed. It often carries the notion of being amazed or entranced by something visually striking or splendid. This term can also connote a certain level of introspection or self-reflection, as beholding may prompt inner thoughts or emotions in response to what is being beheld.
Overall, "beheld" encapsulates the act of seeing with intent, reverence, and wonder, emphasizing a focused and attentive visual encounter that elicits an emotional or intellectual response in the observer.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word beheld comes from Middle English behealden, which is a combination of the prefix be- indicating thoroughness or completeness, and the verb holden meaning to keep, to hold. The Old English form of be- was bi- or beo-, and helden is the past participle of holden. Therefore, the etymology suggests that beheld originally meant to hold or keep completely or to hold in sight or view.
