bless

bless · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    Ask God to protect and look favorably upon someone.

  2. 2.

    Consecrate or make holy.

  3. 3.

    Endow with a particular quality or ability.

  4. 4.

    Express gratitude or relief.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bless you — Said after someone sneezes.
  • •
    bless your heart — Southern expression of sympathy or mild condescension.
  • •
    God bless — An expression of goodwill.
  • •
    count your blessings — Be grateful for what you have.
  • •
    bless my soul — Expression of surprise.

Related words

Antonyms: curse, damn
See also: blessed, blessing, holy, prayer
Synonyms: consecrate, hallow, sanctify

Etymology

From Old English blētsian, blēdsian ("to bless, consecrate"), originally meaning "to mark with blood" in pagan ritual, later influenced by Latin benedicere.