benedictus: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Religious
Quick answer
What does “benedictus” mean?
A liturgical hymn or canticle beginning with the Latin word 'Benedictus', meaning 'Blessed'.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A liturgical hymn or canticle beginning with the Latin word 'Benedictus', meaning 'Blessed'.
Specifically, the canticle of Zechariah from the Gospel of Luke (Luke 1:68-79) used in Christian morning prayer services, or the canticle of Simeon (Nunc Dimittis, Luke 2:29-32) used in evening prayer. It also refers to the section of the Sanctus in the Mass ('Benedictus qui venit in nomine Domini').
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Usage is dictated by denominational practice rather than national variety.
Connotations
Same religious connotations in both regions.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both, confined to religious contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “benedictus” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] (as subject) e.g., 'The Benedictus follows the first lesson.'[Verb] + the + Benedictus e.g., 'They chanted the Benedictus.'Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in theological, liturgical, or musicological discussions.
Everyday
Extremely rare, only among religious practitioners.
Technical
Used in liturgical rubrics and sacred music scores.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “benedictus”
- Using it as a common noun (e.g., 'a benedictus').
- Not capitalizing it.
- Confusing it with the 'Sanctus' or 'Magnificat'.
- Mispronouncing /-təs/ as /-tʊs/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a Latin word used as a loanword in English, exclusively in religious contexts. It is not used in general English conversation.
The Sanctus ('Holy, Holy, Holy') is a hymn from the Eucharistic prayer. The 'Benedictus qui venit' is often part of it. The term 'Benedictus' alone usually refers to the Canticle of Zechariah from Luke's Gospel.
Yes, it is a proper noun referring to specific liturgical texts and should always be capitalised.
Not in modern English. The Latin adjective 'benedictus' (meaning blessed) is the source, but in English, it functions solely as a noun naming the canticle.
A liturgical hymn or canticle beginning with the Latin word 'Benedictus', meaning 'Blessed'.
Benedictus is usually formal, religious in register.
Benedictus: in British English it is pronounced /ˌbɛnɪˈdɪktəs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌbɛnəˈdɪktəs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'BENEDICTION' (a blessing) - the 'Benedictus' is a specific, sung 'blessing' from the Bible.
Conceptual Metaphor
SPEECH/BLESSING IS A SONG (The blessing is formalized into a sung text).
Practice
Quiz
What is the 'Benedictus' primarily?