Main Entry:

bless

Pronunciation:

\ˈbles\

Function:

transitive verb

Inflected Form(s):

blessed \ˈblest\ also blest \ˈblest\ ; bless·ing

Etymology:

Middle English, from Old English blētsian, from blōd blood; from the use of blood in consecration

Date:

before 12th century

1: to hallow or consecrate by religious rite or word2: to hallow with the sign of the cross3: to invoke divine care for <bless your heart> —used in the phrase bless you to wish good health especially to one who has just sneezed4 a: praise, glorify <bless his holy name> b: to speak well of : approve5: to confer prosperity or happiness upon6archaic : protect, preserve7: endow, favor <blessed with athletic ability>