bendición
“bendición” means “blessing” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
blessing
Also: benediction
📝 In Action
El sacerdote dio la bendición al pan y al vino.
A2The priest gave the blessing to the bread and wine.
Pedimos la bendición de Dios para nuestro nuevo hogar.
B1We asked for God's blessing for our new home.
a blessing
Also: godsend, boon
📝 In Action
Tener un buen trabajo es una bendición en estos tiempos.
B1Having a good job is a blessing in these times.
La lluvia fue una bendición para los cultivos secos.
B2The rain was a godsend for the dry crops.
May I go?
Also: Farewell
📝 In Action
Hijo: ¡La bendición, mamá! | Madre: ¡Dios te bendiga!
C1Son: Blessing, Mom! (A request for permission/farewell) | Mother: God bless you!
Con la bendición de mis padres, me mudé al extranjero.
C1With the blessing (permission) of my parents, I moved abroad.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: bendición
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'bendición' to mean 'good fortune' rather than a formal religious act?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin *benedictiō*, which literally means 'a speaking well' or 'praise.' This root connects the idea of speaking good things with granting divine favor.
First recorded: Around the 13th century in Spanish.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'bendición' used only in religious contexts?
No. While its origin is religious, it is very commonly used in everyday language to mean 'a great advantage' or 'a piece of good luck.' If you say, 'Mi carro es una bendición,' you mean your car is incredibly helpful and reliable.
How do I respond if someone says 'La bendición' to me in a traditional context?
If you are the elder receiving this request (often from a child or younger relative), the traditional and expected response is 'Dios te bendiga' (God bless you), or simply 'Que te vaya bien' (May things go well for you).