pray
UK: preɪ | US: preɪ
vi. to speak to a god or deity, especially to give thanks or ask for help
vt. to ask earnestly for something; to beg or plead
The word "pray" originates from the Old French "preier," which itself derives from the Latin "precari," meaning "to ask earnestly or beg." This Latin root is tied to religious supplication, reflecting its early association with addressing deities. Over time, the meaning broadened to include any earnest request, though it retains strong religious connotations. The spelling and pronunciation have remained relatively stable since Middle English.
She knelt by the bed to pray before sleeping.
The villagers gathered to pray for rain during the drought.
"I pray you, reconsider your decision," he pleaded.
They pray every morning at sunrise.
The monk spends hours each day in prayer.