godspeed
godspeed Lexical Profile
godspeed Game Scores & Validity
• interjection
Used to express good wishes for a safe and successful journey or new undertaking.
"Godspeed on your voyage across the Atlantic!"
• noun
An expression of good wishes to a person starting a journey or a new venture for their safety, prosperity, and success.
"The crowd gathered at the harbor to bid the explorers godspeed before they set sail."
Word Nuance & Usage
The element 'speed' in 'godspeed' does not refer to velocity or haste, but rather preserves the older Middle English sense of 'prosperity' or 'success'.
Word Origin & Etymology
Originated in Middle English from the phrase 'God spede (you)', meaning 'may God cause you to prosper or succeed', where 'speed' retained its Old English sense of success and good fortune rather than rapid movement.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.