bask

verb

ˈbask How to pronounce bask (audio)
basked; basking; basks
Synonyms of bask

intransitive verb

1
: to lie or relax in a pleasant warmth or atmosphere
basking in the warmth of the sun
2
: to take pleasure or derive enjoyment
basked in the spotlight

transitive verb

obsolete : to warm by continued exposure to heat
… basks at the fire his hairy strength …—John Milton

Synonyms of bask

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Examples of bask in a Sentence

We sat basking in the sun. Tourists were basking on the beaches. He stood before the audience, basking in their applause.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The most basic building block is warmer water temperatures, which peak in September after basking in summer’s heat, and provide fuel for storms to form and strengthen. — Chris Dolce, CNN Money, 31 Aug. 2026 Running until mid-October, the ride is an excellent way to bask in New England’s autumnal glory and drops passengers off right at the resort’s Cliff House Restaurant for a scenic meal. — Jessica Sulima, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Aug. 2026 And then to bask in that confinement, in not having to worry about lunch or dinner or changing the sheets. — Literary Hub, 26 Aug. 2026 After a summer spent outdoors basking in the sun, houseplants can struggle to adjust to life indoors. — Rachel Gillett, Martha Stewart, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bask

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, probably from Old Norse bathask, reflexive of batha to bathe; akin to Old English bæth bath

First Known Use

circa 1616, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of bask was circa 1616

Phrases Containing bask

Rhymes for bask

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Browse Nearby Words

basitemporal
bask
Baskerville
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Cite this Entry

“Bask.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bask. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bask

verb
ˈbask How to pronounce bask (audio)
: to lie or relax in a pleasant warmth or atmosphere
bask in the sun
basked in their success
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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