Langimage
English

bless

|bless|

B1

/blɛs/

divine favor

Etymology
Etymology Information

'bless' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'blētsian,' where 'blēts-' meant 'to consecrate with blood.'

Historical Evolution

'blētsian' changed from the Old English word 'blētsian' and eventually became the modern English word 'bless.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to consecrate with blood,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to confer divine favor.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to confer or invoke divine favor upon; ask God to look favorably on.

The priest blessed the congregation.

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Antonyms

Verb 2

to make something holy through a religious rite.

The water was blessed before the ceremony.

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Verb 3

to endow someone with a particular cherished thing or attribute.

She was blessed with a beautiful voice.

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Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35