benediction
UK: ˌbɛnɪˈdɪkʃ(ə)n | US: ˌbɛnəˈdɪkʃən
n. a formal blessing, especially at the end of a religious ceremony
n. the utterance or bestowing of a blessing
n. something that promotes goodness or well-being
The word "benediction" originates from Latin benedictio, combining bene (meaning "well") and dicere (meaning "to speak"). The morpheme bene appears in other English words like "benefit" and "benevolent," while dict is seen in "dictate" and "predict." Over time, benedictio evolved into Old French benedicion before entering Middle English as "benediction." The term retains its core meaning of "speaking well" or "blessing," reflecting its religious and ceremonial use.
The priest concluded the service with a benediction.
Her kind words felt like a benediction to the grieving family.
The mayor offered a benediction for the city’s prosperity.
In many cultures, a parent’s benediction is considered sacred.
The poem ended with a benediction of peace and hope.