1. (n.) A canticle (the Latin version of which begins with this word) which may be used in the order for morning prayer in the Church of England. It is taken from an apocryphal addition to the third chapter of Daniel.

2. (n.) An exclamation corresponding to Bless you !.

OK acknowledgment advantage approval benedicite benefit benison blessing boon cognizance credit crediting favor godsend grace hymn invocation paean praise prayer of thanks recognition thank offering thank-you thanks thanksgiving