beseem

Etymology

PIE word *h₁epi From Middle English bisemen (“to beseem”) [and other forms], from be-, bi- (prefix forming transitive verbs with a completive, figurative, or intensifying sense) + semen (“to seem; to be or see as appropriate; to be visible or apparent; to regard”). Semen is derived from Old Norse sœma (“to conform to; to befit, beseem”), from Proto-Germanic *sōmijaną (“to fit; to unite”), from Proto-Indo-European *sem- (“one; whole”). The English word is analysable as be- (prefix with an intensifying sense) + seem.

verb

1. Generally with a qualifying word such as ill or well: to appear, look, or seem (a certain way for someone or something).
   This inn beseems well for a weary wayfarer.
   The Nationall Aſſembly of this Kirk, from which we have our Commiſſion, did promiſe in their thankſgiving for the many favours expreſſed in Your Majeſties Letter, their beſt endeavours to keep the people under their charge, in unity and peace, and in loyalty and obedience to Your Majeſtie and Your Laws, which we confeſſe is a duty well beſeeming the preachers of the Goſpel: […] 14 January 1643, “To the Kings Most Excellent Majesty. The Humble Petition of the Commissioners of the Generall Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, from Their Meeting at Edinburgh, January 4, 1643 [Julian calendar].”, in The Humble Petition of the Commissioners of the Generall Assembly to the Kings Majesty.[…], Edinburgh: […] Evan Tyler,[…], →OCLC, page 6
   The girl is born pretty—and a rebel. […] The mouth, artfully carmined to allure, beseems the red door of a white sepulchre. 1915 July, “Close-ups”, in Photoplay Magazine: The National Movie Publication, volume VIII, number 2, Chicago, Ill.: Photoplay Publishing, →OCLC, page 120
2. Without any qualifying word: to be appropriate or creditable (for someone or something).
   It beseems you not to grumble thus.