Blessing

/ˈblɛsɪŋ/

nounBeginner🔥Very CommonAbstract Noun
2 meanings1 idiom/phrase2 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

Something good that is given to someone; divine favor or grace.

/ˈblɛsɪŋ/

nounpositiveBeginner
Abstract Noun

Something good that is given to someone by God or another powerful force

The rain was a blessing to the drought-stricken farmers.

💡 Simply: A good thing that happens to you.

More Examples

2

Having such supportive friends is a true blessing.

How It's Used

Religious

"She considered her children her greatest blessing."

Everyday Life

"The good weather was a blessing for the outdoor festival."

2

To invoke divine favor or protection upon.

/blɛs/

verbneutralBeginner
Action

To ask for God's favor on someone or something.

She blessed herself before entering the church.

💡 Simply: To ask God to protect or help someone.

More Examples

2

May God bless you and keep you safe.

How It's Used

Religious

"The priest blessed the newlyweds."

Tip:Imagine making the sign of the cross.

Idioms & expressions

God bless you

An expression of good wishes, often said after someone sneezes.

"God bless you! You seem to have caught a cold."

From Old English *blētsung, from blēotsian 'to bless'. Ultimately of Germanic origin, related to words meaning 'to sacrifice' or 'to consecrate'.

The word 'blessing' has been used in religious contexts for centuries, often referring to divine intervention or grace. Its secular use, referring to fortunate events, developed over time.

Memory tip

Think of receiving a gift of good fortune.

Word Origin

LanguageOld English
Original meaning

"to sacrifice, consecrate"

Base: bless
divine blessingGod's blessinga blessing in disguise

Common misspellings

blesingblessin

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written