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bid
/bɪd/
to offer a price for something
She bid $500 for the antique vase at the auction.
She offered $500 to buy the antique vase at the auction.
formalinformal
to offer a price for something, especially at an auction
The company bid $2 million for the new project contract.
The company offered $2 million to win the new project contract.
Often used in auctions, business, or competitive situations.
informal
to make an attempt or effort to do something
He bid to win her heart with his charm.
He tried to win her heart with his charm.
Less common meaning, often used in literary or poetic contexts.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
'Bid' is often used in the context of auctions, where participants offer prices for items. It can also mean to make an attempt or effort to do something.
Gold Rule
Auction Context
When 'bid' is used in the context of an auction, it typically refers to offering a price for an item.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'biden', meaning 'to command, order, or ask', from Old English 'biddan'.
Usage Notes
In modern usage, 'bid' is most commonly associated with offering a price, especially in auctions or business contexts. The verb can also mean to attempt or try to do something, though this usage is less common.
Word Breakdown
bid
to offer a price or make an attempt
rootEnglish Dictionary