segnen

Segnen is a German verb meaning to bless. It is used primarily in religious or ceremonial contexts, where it denotes the act of invoking divine favor, protection, or benediction over a person, object, or event. The phrase Gott segne dich is a common liturgical or prayerful expression that exemplifies its typical usage.

Conjugation and forms: Segnen follows regular German verb patterns. In the present tense: ich segne, du segnest, er segnet, wir segnen, ihr segnet, sie segnen. The past participle is gesegnet, and the simple past is segnete. The verb is often found in imperative forms in blessings or prayers, such as segne uns or segne dich.

Etymology and cognates: Segnen is connected to the Germanic word family for blessing and is closely related to the noun Segen, the standard German term for “blessing.” This reflects a common historical development in which a verb meaning to bless is linked to a noun expressing the result or act of blessing. Related forms appear in other Germanic languages, such as Dutch zegenen (to bless).

Usage in language and culture: In modern German, segnen remains a common term in religious discourse, liturgy, and hymnody. In secular speech, speakers may use alternative expressions for blessing or good wishes, but segnen retains a formal or ceremonial connotation. The concept also appears in literature and film to convey sacred or solemn atmospheres.