benediction
a blessing or good words spoken over someone
Roots
- bene: good
- dic / dict: say or proclaim
Other words with the dic / dict root
- abdicate: to give up power or responsibility
- dictate: to say with authority; to command or prescribe
- dictator: a ruler with absolute authority
- diction: choice and style of words in speech or writing
- dictionary: a reference book or resource for words and meanings
- dictum: a formal saying or authoritative statement
- edict: an official order or proclamation
Bene gives good and dict gives saying. Benediction is good speech: a blessing spoken over someone.
The ceremony ended with a quiet benediction for the graduating class.
Here two families meet cleanly: not just goodness, not just words, but good words spoken for someone. That is why benediction feels warmer than a neutral statement.