Part of Speech

Adjective, Past tense of "bless"

Pronunciation

/blɛst/

Definitions

• 1. (Adjective) Having been blessed, particularly with divine favor or goodness.
• 2. (Adjective) Used to express gratitude or a sense of being fortunate or fortunate by divine will.

Usage Examples

• They were a blest family, surrounded by love and prosperity.
• The blest child grew up in a house filled with care and affection.
• He thanked the heavens for his blest existence after surviving the accident.

Etymology

The word "blest" is the archaic or poetic past participle of the verb "bless," which comes from Old English "blessed," meaning consecrated or made holy. The form "blest" has been in use since the 14th century and is still retained in religious or poetic contexts.

Synonyms

• Favored
• Graced
• Fortunate
• Lucky
• Holy

Antonyms

• Unblessed
• Cursed
• Unfortunate
• Accursed
• Unlucky

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In English, the pronunciation of "blest" is fairly consistent across regions, though it may be more commonly used in formal or poetic contexts. The term may sound more archaic in some dialects, while others may prefer the more commonly used form "blessed."

Historical Usage

The term "blest" has been in use since the 14th century, primarily in religious and poetic language. Historically, it was used to describe someone or something that was favored or consecrated, often by divine intervention. In many religious contexts, being "blest" is seen as being bestowed with God's favor or protection. Over time, the use of "blest" has become more poetic, and in modern language, "blessed" is more common in everyday usage.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, being "blest" is associated with a sense of divine favor or good fortune, often linked to the idea of living a righteous or virtuous life. In Christianity, being "blest" is often tied to divine blessings, such as good health, prosperity, or protection. In various global traditions, the concept of being "blest" may also have associations with social status or family well-being, emphasizing a sense of gratitude or recognition of favor from higher powers.

More Information

"Blest" is an archaic or poetic form of "blessed," and its usage reflects a connection to religious, ceremonial, or traditional language. In contemporary usage, "blessed" is more commonly seen in casual contexts, while "blest" is reserved for more formal, poetic, or literary expressions. The word retains its spiritual and cultural significance in both historical and modern contexts, continuing to convey a sense of divine favor or good fortune.