Definition of: benediction

(ben′ə·dik′shən) noun
1. The act of blessing, as at the close of worship.
2. The invocation of divine favor upon a person.
3. Any of various formal ecclesiastical ceremonies of blessing; a dedication or consecration.
4. Divine grace or favor; the state of blessedness.
5. The giving of thanks before or after meals; grace. [<L benedictio, -onis <benedicere bless]
—ben′·e·dic′tive, ben·e·dic·to·ry (ben′ə·dik′tər·ē) adjective