beseem

verb

Etymology: PIE word *h₁epi From Middle English bisemen (“to beseem”) [and other forms], from be-, bi- (prefix forming transitive verbs with a completive, figurative, or intensifying sense) + semen (“to seem; to be or see as appropriate; to be visible or apparent; to regard”). Semen is derived from Old Norse sœma (“to conform to; to befit, beseem”), from Proto-Germanic *sōmijaną (“to fit; to unite”), from Proto-Indo-European *sem- (“one; whole”). The English word is analysable as be- (prefix with an intensifying sense) + seem.

1. Generally with a qualifying word such as ill or well: to appear, look, or seem (a certain way for someone or something).

   “This inn beseems well for a weary wayfarer.”

   “To ſay the truth, this fact was infamous, / And ill beſeeming any common man; / Much more a Knight, a Captaine, and a Leader.”

2. Without any qualifying word: to be appropriate or creditable (for someone or something).

   “It beseems you not to grumble thus.”

   “Giue me their Bodyes, that I may beare them hence / And giue them Buriall, as beſeemes their worth.”