Beholden meaning

Beholden means "owing something to someone" where the individual feels indebted to another.


Beholden definitions

Word backwards nedloheb
Part of speech adjective
Syllabic division be-hold-en
Plural The plural of beholden is beholdens.
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) e,o
Consonants (5) b,h,l,d,n

Beholden is a term that refers to being indebted or obligated to someone or something. It implies a sense of duty or responsibility towards another individual or entity. When someone is beholden, they feel a strong sense of gratitude or obligation towards the person or organization that has helped them in some way.

Being beholden can arise in various contexts, such as personal relationships, business dealings, or professional situations. For example, if a friend helps you out in a time of need, you may feel beholden to them and want to reciprocate their kindness in the future.

Etymology of Beholden

The word beholden comes from the Old English word "behealdan," which means "to keep, hold, or retain." Over time, the term evolved to encompass the idea of being indebted or obligated to someone. It conveys a sense of loyalty, appreciation, and responsibility towards the person or entity that has provided assistance or support.

Expressing Gratitude and Thanks

When someone feels beholden to another individual, they may express their gratitude and thanks in various ways. This could include saying thank you, offering a small gift, or extending a helping hand in return. By acknowledging their indebtedness, they show respect and appreciation for the assistance they have received.

Managing Expectations and Boundaries

While being beholden can foster positive relationships and connections, it is essential to manage expectations and boundaries. Feeling too obligated or indebted to someone can lead to feelings of resentment or overwhelm. It's crucial to strike a balance between showing appreciation and maintaining a sense of autonomy and self-respect.

In conclusion, being beholden involves a complex interplay of gratitude, obligation, and reciprocity. It reflects the interconnected nature of human relationships and the importance of acknowledging the help and support we receive from others.


Beholden Examples

  1. I am beholden to my parents for all their support.
  2. She felt beholden to her mentor for guiding her through her career.
  3. He was beholden to his friend for lending him money in his time of need.
  4. The company was beholden to its customers for their loyalty.
  5. She was beholden to the community for their assistance after the disaster.
  6. The politician was beholden to his campaign donors for their contributions.
  7. The student was beholden to her teacher for helping her improve her grades.
  8. He felt beholden to his former boss for giving him a job opportunity.
  9. The artist was beholden to his patrons for supporting his work.
  10. The organization was beholden to its volunteers for their dedication.


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  • Updated 22/04/2024 - 22:58:34