To assert the truth of (something); to affirm (something) with confidence; to declare (something) in a positive manner.
To justify or prove (an allegation or plea that one has made).
To esteem or account happy; to felicitate.
To make something holy by religious rite, sanctify.
To make the sign of the cross upon, so as to sanctify.
To invoke divine favor upon.
To honor as holy, glorify; to extol for excellence.
To turn (a reference) into an object.
Used as an expression of endearment, gratitude, or (ironically) belittlement.