bask

verb

ˈbask 

basked; basking; basks

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

• kick back
• loll
• lounge
• relax
• repose
• rest

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

Paris, France: The Best New Year’s Destination for Luxury Travelers As host of the Summer Olympics, Paris basked in the spotlight in 2024 and surely inspired travelers to check out France’s capital. —Brittany Anas, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

Don Johnson is basking in all the family love this holiday season. —Pamela Avila, USA TODAY, 16 Dec. 2024

But for now, Trump is more than happy to bask in the admiration of a domestic and global establishment that is seeking his favor. —Niall Stanage, The Hill, 14 Dec. 2024

Flashback: In 2019 when we were named the No. 1 pro sports city, Nashville was basking in the glow of hosting the NFL Draft, while the Predators and Titans routinely reached the postseason. —Nate Rau, Axios, 13 Dec. 2024

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

Phrases Containing bask

• bask in the glory
• bask in the reflected glory

Kids Definition

bask

verb

ˈbask 

: to lie or relax in a pleasant warmth or atmosphere

bask in the sun

basked in their success