What does bask mean?
Bask is a verb meaning to lie in or expose oneself to pleasant warmth, most typically the warmth of the sun. A lizard basks on a rock; a beachgoer basks in the afternoon light. By natural extension, the word also describes taking pleasure or pride in intangible warmth: people bask in praise, in victory, in affection, or in the limelight. In this figurative sense, basking is generally positive, though it can shade into mild criticism when it implies smug self-congratulation. Grammatically, bask functions almost always as an intransitive verb paired with the preposition "in," and it has no common derived noun or adjective forms of its own. The word entered English in the late fourteenth century from Old Norse "baðast," meaning to bathe oneself, which makes its history delightfully literal: to bask is, etymologically speaking, simply to bathe — in light rather than in water.
To lie or relax in pleasant warmth, especially that of the sun.
"Tortoises bask under heat lamps to regulate their body temperature."
Almost always used intransitively, typically followed by "in."
To take pleasure or satisfaction in something, especially attention, praise, or success.
"She basked in the applause long after the curtain fell."
Figurative extension of the literal sense; sometimes carries a connotation of complacency.
"Bask" comes from an Old Norse word meaning to bathe — so every sunbather is literally bathing, just without water.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of bask
Bask derives from the Old Norse reflexive verb "baðast," meaning "to bathe oneself," related to the root behind English "bathe." It was borrowed into Middle English around the late fourteenth century, initially retaining the sense of wallowing in warmth or comfort. Over time it developed its modern figurative use of enjoying attention or acclaim, which became established by the sixteenth century and remains common today.
How bask is actually used
Bask is most often used with "in" — one basks in the sun, in glory, or in someone's admiration. The literal sense is neutral and descriptive; the figurative sense can carry a slightly negative connotation when it suggests smugness or self-satisfaction, as in "basking in his own success." The verb is usually intransitive.
Easily confused with bask
Basque refers to the people, language, and culture of the Basque region spanning parts of Spain and France, whereas bask means to enjoy warmth or attention.