1. past tense of bestride; to stand astride over something; to stand with legs on either side of
Usage: archaic or literary; often used in historical or dramatic contexts
2. past tense of bestride; to dominate or tower over; to stand astride as a commanding figure
Usage: archaic or literary; figurative use

Examples

• The colossus bestrid the harbor entrance like a guardian.
• He bestrid the narrow bridge, blocking the way forward.
• The general bestrid the battlefield, commanding his troops.
• She bestrid the two worlds of art and science.
• The monument bestrid the plaza, visible from every corner.