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.