English

Noun

blessed event ‎(plural blessed events)

1. (idiomatic, euphemistic) The birth of a baby.
   • 1940, "Good Omen," Time, 24 June:

     Alexander Loudon, Netherlands Minister to the U.S., when asked if the blessed event was in prospect, hedged: "A royal child born on the soil of freedom-loving America would be both a blessing and a good omen."

   • 2007, Laura Capitano, "I hate . . . TV birth plotlines," Florida Times-Union, 5 Nov. (retrieved 12 May 2009):

     Soon we come to the mother-to-be-any-minute-now in the delivery room, and there is some question about whether the father can/will/wants to get to the hospital in time for the blessed event.

2. (idiomatic, sometimes humorous or ironical) An occurrence or occasion which is particularly noteworthy and enjoyable.
   • 1850, Charles Dickens, David Copperfield, ch. 33:

     Mr. Spenlow told me this day week was Dora's birthday, and he would be glad if I would come down and join a little picnic on the occasion. . . . I think I committed every possible absurdity in the way of preparation for this blessed event.

   • 2004, Gary Rivlin, "Quiet, Please! Suddenly, the S.E.C. Is Listening," New York Times, 26 Sep. (retrieved 12 May 2009):

     There was a time not so long ago when a company poised to go public would invite a reporter inside to memorialize the moments leading up to the blessed event.

Usage notes

• Usually preceded by the.