What does begat mean in the bible Meaning and Definition
What does begat mean in the bible
Pronunciation
/ˈbiːɡæt/
Part of Speech
Verb, Noun
Definition
Examples
- According to the Bible, Abraham begat Isaac.
- The discovery of fire begat the development of metallurgy.
Synonyms
- Beget
- Originated
- Related
Antonyms
- Preceded
- Followed
Etymology
The word “begat” comes from the Old English word “begotan”, which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*begiz”, meaning “to produce” or “to bring forth”. This is also related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*bhu-“, meaning “to grow” or “to become”.
Usage Notes
When using “begat” to describe an ancestor-descendant relationship, the verb is usually in the passive voice, as in “he was begotten by his father”. When describing a cause-and-effect relationship, the verb is often in the active voice, as in “the discovery of fire begat the development of metallurgy”/>.
Cultural References
“Begat” has appeared in various cultural references, such as in literature, music, and film. For example, in the Bible, the book of Genesis tells the story of the begatting of the children of Adam and Eve.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Phrases such as “begat me a son” or “begat a new idea” are common idioms that use the word “begat” to describe a cause-and-effect relationship.
Related Words or Phrases
Related words or phrases to “begat” include “ancestor”, “descendant”, “genalogy”, and “causality”.
Collocations
Common word combinations with “begat” include “begat a child”, “begat a new trend”, or “begat a movement”.
Frequency of Use
The frequency of use of the word “begat” has decreased over time, as more modern words and phrases have taken its place. However, it is still used in biblical and genealogical contexts.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of “begat” include “begate”, “begted”, and “begatten”.