ENGLISH
REFERENCE

blessing

n. countable
C1 Advanced Oxford US //ˈbɫɛsɪŋ// UK //blˈɛsɪŋ// bless·ing

n. something that is good or helpful, or a prayer asking for protection. You use it when you feel lucky or thankful for a situation.

n. a prayer for divine protection or a beneficial thing for which one is grateful. Often used figuratively to describe a fortunate circumstance that provides relief or advantage.


SIMPLE

The rain was a blessing for the dry garden.

CONTEXTUAL

Having a supportive family is a real blessing when you are going through a difficult time at work.

COMPLEX

The new highway proved to be a mixed blessing; while it shortened the commute significantly, the resulting noise pollution drove down local property values.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Often used in the idiomatic phrase 'a blessing in disguise' to describe a problem that eventually has a good result.

Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference