1. The utterance of a blessing; solemn invocation of blessedness upon a person; a devout expression of a wish for the happiness, prosperity, or success of a person or an enterprise: The primate of the church gave a benediction to members of the congregation before they left for the winter holidays.

Jim's parents gave their benediction to him by wishing him, from their hearts, that all would go well on his trip as a professional photographer in the center of a war zone.

2. Blessing carried into practical effect; kindly favor, grace: The local spiritual leader gave a benediction for the farmers in praise of their good crops.

The pastor, Mr. Anderson, gave his benediction to the couple at the end of the wedding ceremony, wishing them contentment and prosperity in their future life together.

3. A prayer of sacred blessing, normally just before a church service ends: The minister, Mr. Drexler, concluded the church meeting with a prayer of benediction.
4. An expression of good things desired, something that assures well-being and goodness: At the conclusion of the meeting of the committee members, the chairperson spoke a brief benediction, wishing everyone a safe summer holiday.