benediction - definition, synonyms and pronunciation

Open English WordNet

the act of praying for divine protectionSynonyms: blessingType of prayer, supplication
a ceremonial prayer invoking divine protectionSynonyms: blessingType of prayer, petitionKinds benison

Word of the day · Oct 17About this word

What does it mean? Question 1 of today’s quiz

Ben′e·dic′tion (…), noun

Origin: L. benedictio: cf. F. bénédiction. See Benison.

1. The act of blessing.

2. A blessing; an expression of blessing, prayer, or kind wishes in favor of any person or thing; a solemn or affectionate invocation of happiness.

So saying, he arose; whom Adam thus Followed with benediction.— John Milton

Homeward serenely she walked with God's benediction upon her.— Henry W. Longfellow

Specifically: The short prayer which closes public worship; as, to give the benediction.

3. Church The form of instituting an abbot, answering to the consecration of a bishop. John Ayliffe

4. Roman Catholic Church A solemn rite by which bells, banners, candles, etc., are blessed with holy water, and formally dedicated to God.

Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54