Ben′e‐dic″tion (�), n. [L. benedictio: cf. F. bénédiction. See Benison.] 1. The act of blessing.
2. A blessing; an expression of blessing, prayer, or kind wishes in favor of any person or thing; a solemn or affectionate invocation of happiness.
So saying, he arose; whom Adam thus
Followed with benediction.
Milton.
Homeward serenely she walked with God's benediction upon her.
Longfellow.
Specifically: The short prayer which closes public worship; as, to give the benediction.
3. (Eccl.) The form of instituting an abbot, answering to the consecration of a bishop. Ayliffe.
4. (R. C. Ch.) A solemn rite by which bells, banners, candles, etc., are blessed with holy water, and formally dedicated to God.