verb

may

Expresses a wish for something to happen.

May your new home bring you years of happiness.

Etymology

The verb originally concerned ability or possibility. In a wish, may presents a desired event as an outcome the speaker hopes will be possible or realized.

More examples

May the best team win!
May you find peace during this difficult time.
May this be the start of a lasting friendship.

Forms

may

Similar words

hope: Expresses a desired outcome rather than offering a blessing.
wish: Directly names a desire, including one unlikely to come true.