benedict, a. and n.
(ˈbɛnɪdɪkt)
Also 6–9 benedick.
[ad. L. benedictus blessed; see prec.]
† A. adj. Blessed, benign, salutary; spec. in Med. mildly laxative. Obs.
| 1576 Baker Gesner's Jewell of Health 209 a, The Oyle Benedick or Oyle of Tyle stones. 1626 Bacon Sylva §19 Rhubarb and other Medicines that are benedict. 1657 J. Goodwin Triers Tried 4 That the two Commissions specified be..benedict to the interest of the Gospel. a 1693 Sancroft Serm. 110 (T.) If the more benign and benedict medicines will not work. |
† b. priest benedict: = benet, exorcist. Obs.
| 1660 R. Coke Power & Subj. 160 No Priest, whether consecrate at [? or] Benedict shall forsake his Church. |
B. n.
1. A newly married man; esp. an apparently confirmed bachelor who marries. [From the character of that name in Shakes. Much Ado about Nothing.]
| [1599 Shakes. Much Ado v. iv. 100 How dost thou Benedicke the married man?] 1821 Scott in Lockhart (1839) VI. 313 Wish the veteran joy of his entrance into the band of Benedicts. 1843 Life in West (L.) He is no longer a benedick, but a quiet married man. |
† 2. ‘A good saying, an honest report.’ Blount Glossogr. 1656.