Pronunciation: [bɪstɹˈɪd] (IPA) 
The word "bestrid" is spelled with the letter "i" after the letter "t" instead of an "e" which might be expected. The reason for this is because "bestrid" is derived from the Old English word "bestrīdan" which contains a long vowel sound, represented in IPA as /i:/, rather than a short vowel sound represented as /ɛ/. So, the letter "i" is used to represent this longer sound in the spelling of "bestrid".
"Bestrid" is a verb in the English language that has multiple meanings and interpretations. To bestrid essentially means to stand or sit with one leg on either side of something, to straddle or span across an object or space. This verb can be used both literally and figuratively, with its primary connotations revolving around covering or dominating something, physically or metaphorically.
In its literal sense, "bestrid" is often associated with physical actions, such as standing astride a horse or straddling a bicycle. It indicates the act of positioning oneself with legs apart, on either side of an object or creature, so as to maintain balance or control. This usage is frequently found in contexts related to riding or mounting.
Metaphorically, "bestrid" implies occupying a position of commanding influence or control over a situation, concept, or group of people. It can connote the act of dominating or overseeing with authority, competence, or expertise. This figurative usage often signifies a person's ability to take charge, govern, or excel in a particular field. For example, one might say, "She bestrode the world of finance for decades, making astute investment decisions."
Overall, "bestrid" encapsulates the act of straddling or spanning both physically and metaphorically, conveying the ideas of balance, dominance, and control in its various applications.
The word "bestrid" is derived from the Old English word "bestrȳdan", which is a combination of the prefix "be-" meaning "around" or "over" and the verb "strȳdan" meaning "stride". The Old English "strȳdan" itself has Germanic origins and is related to the Dutch "bestrijden" and German "bestreiten", all of which convey the sense of striding or treading over something. Over time, "bestrȳdan" evolved into "bestride" in Middle English, with both words essentially meaning to stand or step over something, either literally or figuratively.
