prayer
UK: preɪə | US: prer
n. a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to a deity or other object of worship
n. a religious service or gathering at which people pray
n. a hope or wish for something to happen
The word "prayer" originates from the Old French "preiere," derived from the Latin "precaria," meaning "a request, entreaty." The root "pray" traces back to the Latin "precari," meaning "to ask earnestly or beg." The suffix "-er" was added in Middle English to form a noun denoting the act or agent of praying. Over time, the term evolved to encompass both the act of communicating with a deity and the formalized expressions used in religious contexts.
She knelt in silent prayer before the altar.
The community gathered for an evening prayer.
His only prayer was for his family's safety.
The priest led the congregation in a heartfelt prayer.
Writing poetry became her form of prayer.