Definition of endow with

The origin of the phrase "endow with" can be traced back to the Middle English word "endeden," which meant "provide" or "grant." This word evolved over time, eventually leading to the modern English word "endow." The prefix "en-" in "endow" comes from the Old English word "on-," which signified "on" or "in." This prefix was used to strengthen the meaning of the subsequent word. In its early usage, the word "endow" referred to the act of providing something, such as wealth or land, as a gift or grant. By the late 14th century, the phrase "endow with" began to appear in written texts, representing the verbal action of "giving" or "providing" a certain quality or attribute to someone or something. For example, in the phrase "endow a building with modern amenities," "endow" implores the act of providing "(the building) with" the quality and features that fall under the category of "modern amenities." Thus, "endow with" is essentially an extension of "endow," whereby the prefix "en-" clarifies the context of the action and narrows down the verb's scope to encompass a specific object or entity.