Part of speech: Adjective
Phonetic transcription: /ˈblɛsɪd/
Meanings: The word "blessed" can have a religious connotation meaning to be divinely or supremely favored; it can also refer to feeling or expressing gratitude, joy, or contentment. In informal usage, it can also mean having good fortune or being very fortunate.
Usage patterns: "Blessed" is commonly used in both written and oral contexts. It is often used in religious contexts and in expressions of gratitude or positivity. It is also used to describe someone who is fortunate or has good luck.
Verb forms: - Simple present: bless - Simple past: blessed / blest - Present participle: blessing - Past participle: blessed / blest
Examples: 1. She feels blessed to have such supportive friends. (Translation: She feels very fortunate to have such supportive friends.) 2. He blessed the newborn baby in the church. (Translation: He performed a religious blessing ceremony for the newborn baby.)
Idiomatic expressions:
- Blessed with: To have been given a particular good thing.
- Example: She was blessed with a beautiful singing voice. (Translation: She was given the gift of a beautiful singing voice.)
- Count your blessings: Be grateful for what you have.
- Example: Instead of focusing on what you don't have, remember to count your blessings. (Translation: Instead of focusing on what you lack, remember to be grateful for what you have.)
- To bless the food: To offer a prayer or give thanks for a meal before eating.
- Example: Let's bless the food before we start eating. (Translation: Let's say a prayer or give thanks for the food before we begin eating.)
Etymology: The word "blessed" comes from the Old English word blēdsian which means "to consecrate with blood, sprinkle with blood." It has evolved over time to mean to hallow or consecrate with a religious blessing, and more broadly to signify being filled with happiness and joy.
Synonyms: - Fortunate - Favored - Happy
Antonyms: - Unfortunate - Unlucky - Cursed