verb
- past tense of behove; was necessary, proper, or advantageous for someone to do something
Usage: archaic; formal
Examples
- It behoved him to speak carefully in front of the council.
- As the eldest son, it behoved him to take responsibility for the family estate.
- It behoved the ambassador to maintain diplomatic relations.
- Given his position, it behoved him to set a good example.
- It behoved her to dress appropriately for the formal occasion.