VocabDictionary

bid

/bɪd/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To offer a specific price for something, especially at an auction.

Example Sentences:
  • She decided to bid five hundred dollars for the antique vase.
  • Several companies have bid for the government contract.
2.verb

To express a greeting or command to someone.

Example Sentences:
  • He stopped to bid his neighbors a good morning.
  • The queen bade the guests to be seated.
3.noun

An offer of a price, especially at an auction, or an attempt to achieve or obtain something.

Example Sentences:
  • His bid of ten thousand dollars was the highest of the day.
  • The city is making a bold bid to host the next Olympic Games.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “bid”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old English 'biddan' (to ask, entreat, pray) and 'beodan' (to offer, proclaim). These two distinct Germanic roots merged over time in Middle English, resulting in the modern dual meaning of making an offer (at an auction) and issuing a command or greeting.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'bid' as a 'big' offer you make to win something.

Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “bid

1. What is the meaning of “bid” in English?

In English, bid (verb) is defined as: “To offer a specific price for something, especially at an auction.”.

2. How do you use “bid” in a sentence?

She decided to bid five hundred dollars for the antique vase.

3. What are English synonyms of “bid”?

Common synonyms include:offer,tender,proposal,attempt

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “bid”?

Derived from the Old English 'biddan' (to ask, entreat, pray) and 'beodan' (to offer, proclaim). These two distinct Germanic roots merged over time in Middle English, resulting in the modern dual meaning of making an offer (at an auction) and issuing a command or greeting.