"Besought" is a past tense form of the verb "beseech", meaning to ask someone earnestly or urgently to do something. The phonetic transcription of this word is /bɪˈsɔːt/ where "bɪ" represents the short "i" sound, "sɔːt" represents the "s" sound followed by the "aw" sound, and "t" represents the hard "t" sound. This word has Old English origins and has retained its archaic spelling, but it is commonly used in literature and formal writing today.
Besought is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "beseech." It is a transitive verb that typically requires an object. Derived from Old English roots, the term "besought" primarily denotes an earnest request, a plea, or an entreaty made by someone for something. It implies a deep desire or need for assistance, favor, or intervention.
When someone beseeches, they implore or beg another person, often in a humble or sincere manner, to grant a specific wish, fulfill a particular need, or take a desired course of action. The act of beseeching usually arises out of a sense of urgency, desperation, or great importance. It may also convey a sense of reverence, respect, or admiration towards the recipient of the request.
Besought implies a strong yearning for help, guidance, support, or mercy. It can be used in various contexts, such as personal appeals for forgiveness, assistance in times of distress, or intercessory prayers. The term conveys the idea that the person making the plea is in a vulnerable position and deeply relies on the goodwill, kindness, or generosity of the person being addressed.
Overall, "besought" describes the act of fervently requesting or pleading for something, indicating a deep need or desire for assistance, favor, or intervention from another person. It encompasses a range of emotions, including urgency, sincerity, and humility, and often implies a level of dependence on the response or actions of the individual being beseeched.
See beseech.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "besought" is derived from the Old English word "besēcan", which is a combination of "be-" (used as a prefix indicating the subject or object about which something is done) and "sēcan" (meaning "to seek"). Over time, "besēcan" transformed into "besohte" in Middle English, and eventually evolved into the modern form "besought".