blesses; blessed
ˈblɛst 
; blessing
; blessing
1
: to make (something or someone) holy by saying a special prayer
The priest blessed their marriage at the wedding.
The water for the baptism has been blessed.
2
: to ask God to care for and protect (someone or something)
The priest blessed the baby I held in my arms.
3
a
—used in the phrase God bless to express good wishes or appreciation for someone or something
May God bless this country.
God bless modern medicine. [=thank God for modern medicine]
b
—used in phrases like bless his/her heart and bless him/her to express affection, appreciation, or understanding
She tries so hard, bless her heart.
My aunt Clare, bless her, watched the kids while we went out.
Our cousin, bless his heart, is just so disorganized.
4
: to provide (a person, place, etc.) with something good or desirable
Nature has blessed the area with good soil and a sunny climate.
—usually used as (be) blessedI have been blessed with good health and a wonderful wife and children.
He was blessed [=endowed] with great speed as a runner.
5
: to give approval to (something)
The committee has not yet blessed the plan.
Cite this Entry
“Bless.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/bless. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.
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