Meaning & Definition of word "Betide"

Betide

/bɪˈtaɪd/

verb:

  • 1. To happen or occur; to take place.
    • Example: Whatever may betide, I will always stand by you.
  • 2. To come to pass, usually with a connotation of an event or outcome.
    • Example: They worried about what would betide them in the future.
  • 3. To happen to or befall someone.
    • Example: Many strange events betide those who venture into the old forest.
  • 4. To be the cause or reason for a particular outcome.
    • Example: He would often ponder the reasons that betide his misfortunes.

Etymology

Middle English 'betiden', from the Old English 'betīdan', meaning to happen.

Common Phrases and Expressions

what may betide:

what may happen in the future

betide one’s fate:

to determine what will happen to someone

betide the worst:

to expect or fear the worst outcome

Related Words

befall:

to happen or occur to someone, usually in a negative way

arise:

to come into being or to become apparent

Slang Meanings of betide

Meaning: to face consequences

Example Sentence: If you don't study for the exam, whatever may betide you!

Meaning: to be inevitable

Example Sentence: With that attitude, trouble is sure to betide.