01 n. The act of blessing.
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1.
The act of blessing.
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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.
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3.
The short prayer which closes public worship; as, to give the benediction.
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4.
The form of instituting an abbot, answering to the consecration of a bishop.(Eccl.)
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5.
A solemn rite by which bells, banners, candles, etc., are blessed with holy water, and formally dedicated to God.(R. C. Ch.)