Benediction

Part of speech: noun (n.)

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:

3. The short prayer which closes public worship; as, to give the benediction.

4. The form of instituting an abbot, answering to the consecration of a bishop. Ayliffe.

5. A solemn rite by which bells, banners, candles, etc., are blessed with holy water, and formally dedicated to God.