bless someone's heart

Definitions

1. Used to express gratitude. (Compare bless you, God bless you.)
2. Used to express affection.
3. Used to soften criticism or express pity. (Compare the British usage of bless (expression of endearment or belittlement).)
   Southern-US, especially
4. Used sarcastically to express contempt.
   Southern-US, especially

Examples

“Bless his innocent heart, he looks too sweet for anything in his little short dresses, with his dear feet sticking out.”

“My dog can't fit in her puppy bed anymore, but she still tries, bless her heart.”

“They're having a hard time getting used to the food down here. They don't like⟳ grits — bless their hearts, they don't even like⟳ sweet tea.”

“We just moved my dad to a senior community, and I need⟳ to make⟳ sure he changed his gas service over to his new address. Bless his heart—he doesn't remember⟳ things the way he used to!”

““Bob had my permission to travel⟳ with Mister Jackson. Mister Jackson asked for his help⟳, and I agreed.” “They must have⟳ tricked you, bless your heart. How could you know⟳ what they were plotting,” Mistress Dean said in her most sympathetic tone.”

“"Bless her heart, she doesn't have⟳ the fashion sense⟳ God gave a billygoat."”

CEFR level