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Bless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bless

[bles ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

prayer

To consecrate or make holy by a religious rite; to ask for God's favor upon.

Synonyms

consecrate, hallow, sanctify.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bless

Duplicate entry, same as above.
consecrate

Specifically used in religious ceremonies to dedicate someone or something to a sacred purpose.

  • The bishop will consecrate the new church building.
  • She was consecrated as a nun.
sanctify

Commonly used in religious contexts to indicate making something holy or purifying it.

  • The priest sanctified the altar with holy water.
  • She sought to sanctify her life through prayer and good deeds.
hallow

Usually archaic, used in formal or literary contexts to denote making something holy or revered.

  • The ground where the battle took place is hallowed in memory.
  • They hallowed the ancient burial site.

Examples of usage

  • May the priest bless this marriage.
  • She blessed the food before they began eating.
Context #2 | Verb

good wishes

To bestow good wishes or approval upon someone; to bring happiness or good fortune to.

Synonyms

approve, favor, wish well.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bless

Used in a religious or spiritual setting to invoke divine care or protection.

  • The priest will bless the newlyweds during the ceremony.
  • She blessed the meal before they ate.
wish well

An informal and friendly way to express good intentions or hopes for someone's success or happiness.

  • I wish you well in your new job.
  • They wished their friend well during his travels.
approve

Used in a formal or official setting to give permission or agree to something.

  • The committee will meet tomorrow to approve the new project.
  • Her parents did not approve of her decision to move abroad.
favor

Usually used when offering support or preference towards someone or something.

  • She favors her younger son in disputes.
  • The manager's favor was evident in the promotion decision.

Examples of usage

  • She blessed him with good health and prosperity.
  • He always blesses us with his presence.
Context #3 | Noun

expression

A prayer asking for God's favor or protection.

Synonyms

devotion, invocation, prayer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bless

Typically, this word is used in religious or spiritual contexts to indicate the act of invoking divine favor upon a person or thing. It can also be used informally as a polite or kind reaction to someone's good fortune.

  • The priest will bless the new church building on Sunday.
  • Bless you! I hope you have a wonderful day ahead.
prayer

Widely used in religious contexts, this term signifies a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God or an object of worship.

  • Every night, she says a prayer for her family's safety.
  • His prayer was filled with gratitude and hope.
invocation

In formal or religious ceremonies, this word refers to the act of calling upon a deity or spirit for help, support, or guidance. It is often part of the opening of an event.

  • The ceremony began with an invocation for peace and unity.
  • The invocation of ancient spirits is common in their traditional rituals.
devotion

This term is often used to describe a deep religious commitment or love for someone or something. It implies a strong emotional attachment and consistent, dedicated effort.

  • Her devotion to her faith is remarkable; she never misses a service.
  • He showed great devotion to his family by working multiple jobs.

Examples of usage

  • She said a silent blessing before the meal.
  • The priest gave his blessing to the congregation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, a blessing is often requested at significant life events such as weddings, births, and religious ceremonies to invoke protection and positive energy.
  • Many religious traditions, including Christianity and Hinduism, include rituals that involve blessings as a means to connect with the divine.
  • The phrase 'bless you' is commonly said after someone sneezes, originating from a belief that a sneeze could expel evil spirits.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'bless your heart' is often used in Southern American English, sometimes to express sympathy or to imply someone is naรฏve.
  • In modern slang, 'bless' is frequently used online as a way to express appreciation or gratitude for something generous or kind.
  • Various movies and songs reference the concept of blessings, highlighting their importance in human relationships and emotions.

Psychology

  • Studies show that expressing gratitude, which can be seen as a form of blessing, has positive effects on mental health and well-being.
  • Practicing blessing or gratitude can lead to increased happiness and life satisfaction, suggesting a direct link between blessings and psychological health.
  • In psychology, blessings can foster a sense of community and belonging, enhancing social connections.

Literature

  • Blessings often appear as themes in great works of literature, symbolizing hope, love, and community support.
  • Characters in novels frequently seek blessings in times of distress, showcasing the human quest for guidance and protection.
  • Poets have captured the essence of blessings in verses, often linking them to nature, spirituality, and personal growth.

Origin of 'bless'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bless' comes from the Old English word 'blฤ“dsian', which meant to make holy.
  • It is related to the Proto-Germanic *blลdiz, which is connected to the idea of blood, signifying life and sanctity.
  • In many languages, similar words have the root meaning of 'to consecrate' or 'make sacred'.

The word 'bless' originated from the Old English word 'blesian', meaning 'to consecrate with blood'. In early Christian times, it was used to refer to the sprinkling of blood in a religious ceremony. Over time, the meaning evolved to include asking for divine favor or approval. Today, 'bless' is commonly used in religious contexts, as well as in everyday language to convey good wishes or approval.

See also: blessed, blessing, blessings.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,308 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.