Godspeed

American

[god-speed] / ˈgɒdˈspid /

noun

good fortune; success (used as a wish to a person starting on a journey, a new venture, etc.).

Godspeed British

/ ˈɡɒdˈspiːd /

interjection

an expression of one's good wishes for a person's success and safety

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of Godspeed

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English, in the phrase God spede “may God prosper (you)”; God, speed

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"He said to us, and we appreciate it… good luck and Godspeed," Gen Caine said.

From BBC • Jan. 3, 2026

"Godspeed speed Carl Dean. Thank you for not picking Jolene," wrote Emmy winner Danny Deraney in a post of his own, sharing a selection of the couple's photos from throughout the years.

From Salon • Mar. 4, 2025

He ended them with this: “Sir. I wish you Godspeed as you assume your second term in office.”

From Slate • Jan. 10, 2025

Italian Premier Giorgio Meloni paid her respects in a social media post, wishing the baby Godspeed.

From Washington Times • Nov. 13, 2023

The injured men are brought to Dr. Thomas Wotton, aboard the Godspeed.

From "Blood on the River" by Elisa Carbone

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023