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prayer

noun

ˈprer How to pronounce prayer (audio)
Definition of prayernext
1
as in petition
an address to God or a deity he always directed a bedside prayer to God before going to sleep

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in plea
an earnest request we hope that the governor will hear our prayer and do something about this pressing problem

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of prayer In the execution chamber, a prison chaplain rested his hand on Ramey's shoulder before leading him in a brief prayer. — James Cirrone, FOXNews.com, 24 Sep. 2026 On Wednesday, Saperstein attended a memorial ceremony in the building lobby, where over 50 people gathered to light prayer candles beneath two photos of him smiling. — Emma Seiwell, New York Daily News, 24 Sep. 2026 On Sunday morning, Leo will meet with the bishops at the French Bishops’ Conference, then celebrate Mass on the Prairie, followed by the Angelus prayer. — ABC News, 24 Sep. 2026 In the Diocese of Peoria, Sheen's prayer life has also inspired lay Catholics. — Aleja Hertzler-McCain, NPR, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prayer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prayer
  1. petition
  2. plea
  3. request
  4. appeal
  5. collect
  6. thanksgiving
  7. orison
Noun
  • Successful habeas petitions do not necessarily lead to quick resolutions.
    — Andrew Carter, Chicago Tribune, 20 Sep. 2026
  • The petition was filed in April 2025 and received more than 2,300 public comments.
    — Jackson Thompson OutKick, FOXNews.com, 20 Sep. 2026
Definition of petition
Noun
  • The woman accused of keeping him captive, 58-year-old Kimberly Sullivan, is expected to head to trial after turning down two plea deals during a hearing in Waterbury Superior Court earlier this month.
    — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 26 Sep. 2026
  • During Odom’s plea hearing in August, prosecutors presented evidence that Odom had methadone, methamphetamine, and amphetamine in his system and had been receiving methadone treatment for approximately two years.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 24 Sep. 2026
Definition of plea
Noun
  • The motif has since become one of the most recognizable features in British gunmaking, appearing on every bespoke gun unless a client requests otherwise.
    — Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026
  • My appreciation to attractions officials, creative types, public relations folks and other experts who helped with facts, figures and fanciful requests.
    — Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 Sep. 2026
Definition of request
Noun
  • Only someone very comfortable, or very dishonest, would pretend the fantasy has no appeal.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 24 Sep. 2026
  • The friendly service, comfortable rooms and downtown location give it wide appeal.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Sep. 2026
Definition of appeal
Noun
  • The issue arises when dust, pet dander, and other debris collect around the TV’s vents.
    — Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 23 Aug. 2026
  • Saturday, Eyes Off Saint Paul, a group of concerned citizens, gathered at Mattocks Park and worked to make sure residents understand what Flock cameras collect.
    — Ubah Ali, CBS News, 22 Aug. 2026
Definition of collect
Noun
  • In the letters that Wilson collected, there are countless appeals to God, prayers for help and understanding and prayers of thanksgiving for strength and mercy.
    — Casey Cep, New Yorker, 9 May 2026
  • In fact, some Thanksgivings have seen multiple balloons go down in the parade.
    — Kate Hogan, PEOPLE, 27 Nov. 2025
Definition of thanksgiving
Noun
  • Kibandi discussed with us about the power of art in creating change and how photography can be a vehicle for culture expanding orisons for girls and women.
    — Caterina De Biasio, Vogue, 16 Dec. 2025
Definition of orison

Browse Nearby Words

prayed
prayer
prayerful
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Cite this Entry

“Prayer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prayer. Accessed 29 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on prayer

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about prayer

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