Bliss Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/blɪs/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A state of supreme happiness, contentment, or joy, often accompanied by a sense of euphoria or ecstasy.

Examples

• She felt a deep sense of bliss when she finally found her lost cat.
• He experienced a moment of bliss when he proposed to his girlfriend.

Synonyms

• Euphoria
• Elation
• Ecstasy

Antonyms

• Despair
• Depression
• Sorrow

Additional Information

Bliss is often associated with spiritual or religious experiences, but it can also be felt in everyday moments, like watching a beautiful sunset or spending quality time with loved ones. It’s a feeling that brings people together and fosters a sense of connection and community.

The concept of bliss has been explored in various philosophical and cultural contexts, including Christian mysticism, Eastern spirituality, and contemporary psychology. It’s often considered a fundamental human drive, alongside needs like food, shelter, and security.

Etymology

The word “bliss” originates from Old English “blis”, meaning “happiness” or “joy”. It’s derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*bliziz”, which is also the source of the Modern English word “bless”.

Usage Notes

Bliss is often used to describe an intense or profound sense of happiness, which can be fleeting or long-lasting. It’s typically used to convey a sense of inner satisfaction or fulfillment.

Cultural References

Bliss has been referenced in various cultural works, including literature, music, and film. For example, the concept of bliss is central to Christian mysticism and has been explored in works like Julian of Norwich’s ” Revelations of Divine Love” and Thomas Merton’s “The Seven Storey Mountain”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Blissful ignorance”: a state of happiness or contentment due to being unaware of any problems or difficulties.
• “In a state of bliss”: expressing a deep sense of happiness or fulfillment.

Related Words or Phrases

• Euphoria
• eudaimonia
• happiness

Collocations

• Blissful marriage
• Blissful parenthood
• Blissful retirement

Frequency of Use

The word “bliss” is relatively rare in everyday conversation, but it’s becoming more popular in contemporary language, particularly in contexts related to personal growth, wellness, and spirituality.

Common Misspellings

• Blissfull
• Blissy
• Blisse