bless
[verb]
Synonyms:
- sanctify, anoint, consecrate, dedicate, exalt, hallow, ordain
- grant, bestow, favour, give, grace, provide

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Contrasted words: defile, desecrate, profane
Related Words: dedicate

[TahlilGaran] English Synonym Dictionary ▲

bless S3 /bles/ verb [transitive]
[Language: Old English; Origin: bletsian, from blod 'blood'; because blood was used in religious ceremonies]

1. bless you! spoken
a) what you say when someone sneezes
b) used to thank someone for doing something for you

2. bless (him/her etc) spoken used to show that you are fond of someone, amused by them, or pleased by something they have done:
He’s always willing to help. Bless him!
‘Jess made this card for me.’ ‘Bless!’

3. be blessed with something to have a special ability, good quality etc:
We’re both blessed with good health.

4. if God blesses someone or something, he helps and protects them:
May God bless you.

5. to ask God to protect someone or something:
The couple later had their marriage blessed in their local parish church.

6. to make something holy:
Then the priest blesses the bread and wine.

7. bless my soul/I’ll be blessed! old-fashioned spoken used to express surprise

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲