behoove

verb

be·​hoove bi-ˈhüv How to pronounce behoove (audio)
bē-
behooved; behooving

transitive verb

: to be necessary, proper, or advantageous for
it behooves us to go

intransitive verb

: to be necessary, fit, or proper

Examples of behoove in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Visually, we are already being cued into what is being implied by Henry’s Uncle: that Yasmin would behoove herself by becoming a Muck. — Nina Li Coomes, Vulture, 29 Sep. 2024 October marks the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which should behoove all of us to understand the most important aspects of breast cancer. — Omer Awan, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English behoven, from Old English behōfian, from behōf

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of behoove was before the 12th century

Rhymes for behoove

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behoove
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Cite this Entry

“Behoove.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behoove. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

behoove

verb
be·​hoove bi-ˈhüv How to pronounce behoove (audio)
behooved; behooving
: to be necessary, fitting, or proper for
such behavior ill behooves you
it behooves a good citizen to obey the law

More from Merriam-Webster on behoove

Nglish: Translation of behoove for Spanish Speakers

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