beatific

Beatific is an adjective meaning producing or displaying bliss, or radiating serene happiness. In general usage it can describe expressions, appearances, or sensations that convey a sense of bliss, such as a beatific smile. The term is often reserved for more elevated or idealized forms of happiness, especially those associated with holiness or spiritual peace.

Etymology and history: Beatific comes from Latin beatificus, literally “making blessed,” formed from beatus meaning blessed and the suffix -ficus meaning “making.” It entered English through Old French and the Latin tradition in the Middle Ages, expanding from a strictly theological sense to more general descriptions of blissful states or expressions.

Theological usage: In Catholic theology, the beatific vision refers to the direct, immediate knowledge of God enjoyed by the blessed after death. This vision is considered the ultimate source of perfect happiness and completes the soul’s beatitude. The term also appears in descriptions of saints or holy persons whose appearance or demeanor is described as beatific, implying a radiance of blessedness.

Secular usage: Outside religious contexts, beatific is less common but can appear in literature and criticism to evoke a sense of untroubled joy or contentment. It can describe landscapes, expressions, or moments that convey an idealized, tranquil bliss.

See also: Beatitude, beatific vision, blessedness.