bespoke: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, specialized (fashion, business, technology).
Quick answer
What does “bespoke” mean?
Made to order for a particular customer.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Made to order for a particular customer; custom-made.
Tailored specifically to individual requirements or specifications, often implying high quality and exclusivity. In computing/business, it describes software or services developed specifically for a client's unique needs.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, 'bespoke' is the standard term for custom-made goods, especially tailoring. In the US, 'custom-made' or 'custom-tailored' are more common in everyday speech, though 'bespoke' is understood and used in upmarket/commercial contexts.
Connotations
UK: Strong traditional association with Savile Row tailoring. US: Often carries a more modern, marketing-driven connotation of premium, personalized service or tech.
Frequency
More frequent and deeply rooted in UK English. In US English, its use has increased significantly in the 21st century, particularly in marketing and tech sectors.
Grammar
How to Use “bespoke” in a Sentence
bespoke + noun (e.g., bespoke software)verb + bespoke (e.g., offer bespoke)bespoke + for + person/organisation (e.g., bespoke for the client)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bespoke” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The tailor will bespeak the cloth for your suit. (archaic/rare)
American English
- The client bespoke a new software module. (extremely rare)
adverb
British English
- The software was bespokely designed for the NHS. (very rare/non-standard)
American English
- The car was bespokely modified. (very rare/non-standard)
adjective
British English
- He invested in a fully bespoke kitchen from a local craftsman.
- The firm is known for its bespoke financial advice.
American English
- The startup offers bespoke marketing analytics for e-commerce.
- She wore a bespoke gown to the gala.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to services or software developed for a specific client (e.g., 'We provide bespoke CRM solutions').
Academic
Less common; may appear in design, marketing, or socio-economic studies discussing consumption.
Everyday
Mainly used for high-end clothing, furniture, or services (e.g., 'a bespoke wedding dress').
Technical
Common in IT/software development (e.g., 'bespoke application programming').
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bespoke”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bespoke”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bespoke”
- Using 'bespoken' as an adjective (archaic/incorrect). The past participle 'bespoken' exists but is rare.
- Overusing 'bespoke' for any minor customization.
- Misspelling as 'bespoked'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a specific type of 'custom', often implying a higher degree of craftsmanship, luxury, and individual attention from a skilled artisan or provider. 'Custom' can be more general.
The related verb is 'bespeak' (to order or arrange in advance), but it is now archaic. In modern English, 'bespoke' is almost exclusively an adjective.
It originated in and remains very strongly associated with British English, particularly UK tailoring. However, it is now widely understood and used in American English, especially in business and marketing.
In tailoring, 'bespoke' typically means a garment cut and made from scratch from a unique pattern for the client. 'Made-to-measure' usually involves adapting a standard base pattern to the client's measurements. 'Bespoke' implies a higher level of customization.
Made to order for a particular customer.
Bespoke is usually formal, specialized (fashion, business, technology). in register.
Bespoke: in British English it is pronounced /bɪˈspəʊk/, and in American English it is pronounced /bɪˈspoʊk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Bespoke as a Savile Row suit.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
BESpoke = BE Spoken for. Imagine someone saying 'I want that suit spoken for (made) just for me.'
Conceptual Metaphor
CLOTHING IS A SERVICE (The tailoring metaphor is extended to other domains: bespoke software is 'tailored' to fit the client).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'bespoke' LEAST likely to be used appropriately?