verb
pray
PRAY/preɪ/
To appeal earnestly to a divine power.
An older adult prays with folded hands in a modest chapel.
Etymology
The underlying sense is earnest asking or entreating. Addressing such appeals to a deity supplied the religious meaning, which covers worship and thanks as well as requests.
In context
I'm going to pray a rosary for nine days in a row for this particular intention
More examples
- She prays to God for strength during her recovery.
- They prayed for their daughter's safe return.
- We gather at the temple to pray for peace.
Forms
pray · prays · prayed · praying
prayer noun — An earnest appeal to a divine power.