ETYM Latin benedictio: cf. French bénédiction. Related to Benison.
A ceremonial prayer invoking divine protection; SYN. blessing.
Blessing; act of blessing; Roman Catholic, rite of blessing the people with the monstrance.
Blessing recited at the end of a Christian service, particularly the Mass.
in der ev. Kirche bei Konfirmation, Trauung, Ordination u. Bestattung geübte Segenshandlung.