I. ˈbek noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English bek, from Old Norse bekkr; akin to Old English bæc brook, Old High German bah, Middle Irish būal flowing water
Britain : a small stream usually with a stony bed
II. verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English becken, alteration of beknen — more at beckon
intransitive verb
1. archaic : gesture , signal
2. chiefly Scotland : bow , curtsy
transitive verb
archaic : to signal to : beckon
III. noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from becken
1. chiefly Scotland : a gesture of salutation or respect : bow , curtsy , nod
coming into the parlor with a low beck
2.
a.
(1) : a gesture or signaling motion
(2) : a nod, wave, or other signal summoning or commanding
b.
(1) : an indication whereby one gives a command or expresses a desire
(2) : full and absolute control
•
- at beck and call
IV. noun
( -s )
Etymology: probably alteration (influenced by beck ) (I) of back (V)
: a large vat : back V ; especially : a vat used in dyeing by hand
V. noun
( -s )
Etymology: back-formation from beckiron
: the beak of an anvil