Beholden
Adjective
Definition: owing thanks or having a duty to someone in return for help or a service.
Synonyms: Indebted, Grateful, Obligated
Antonyms: Ungrateful, Independent
Examples:
- I am beholden to you for helping me with my project.
- She felt beholden to her mentor for guiding her career.
Mnemonics:
- "Be grateful and remember the help you received, be beholden."
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English 'beholden', from Old English 'behealdan' (to hold, preserve, or keep)
Historical Usage:The word has been in usage since Old English times, indicating a sense of obligation or indebtedness.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Beholden to someone"
Explanation:Being under an obligation to someone for their help or assistance.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing 'beholden' with 'beholding'.
Explanation:'Beholding' refers to actively looking at or observing something, while 'beholden' pertains to owing thanks or having a duty to someone.