What does godsend mean?
A godsend is something that arrives when it is needed and brings welcome benefits, such as help, money, useful information, or good fortune. The expression commonly refers to an unexpected or fortunate event rather than something deliberately sought. Its strong religious association comes from its history: it combines “God” with “send,” originally appearing in prayers such as “God send help.” Over time, the phrase developed into a noun for the assistance or good fortune that God was asked to provide. Today, “godsend” is usually informal but emphatic, conveying gratitude, relief, or appreciation. People may describe a surprise gift, a timely solution, financial support, or an unexpected success as “a godsend.” Because the word carries a positive emotional charge, it is especially effective in personal accounts, journalism, and informal descriptions of favorable circumstances, while occasional ironic use can also occur.
nounA thing or event that is welcomed as a fortunate, unexpected gift, especially one that provides help or relief. The word can also refer more generally to a welcome piece of good fortune.
- A thing or event that is welcomed as a fortunate, unexpected gift, especially one that provides help or relief.
"The unexpected grant was a godsend to the struggling research team."
"The replacement parts were a godsend, allowing the machine to be repaired immediately."
"For many small businesses, the emergency support program was a godsend during the downturn."
The standard plural is “godsend,” with no added -s.
"The two emergency grants were godsend for the community center."
A godsend began as a prayer: “God send help” became the name for the help that arrives.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does godsend come from?
The word combines “God” with “send,” whose modern English form comes from Old English sendan, meaning “to send.” In early modern English, “God send” was used in prayers or wishes such as “God send help,” asking God to provide assistance. By the early 17th century, the expression had developed into the noun “godsend,” meaning something sent or provided by God; related English forms include “sender,” “sending,” and “resend.”
How godsend is actually used
The word is informal and generally carries a strongly positive connotation. It is often used to emphasize how welcome, helpful, or unexpectedly fortunate something is.