Ben`e*dic"tion (?), n. [L. benedictio: cf. F. b'en'ediction. 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.
© Webster 1913.