\ ˈprer
\
\
Definition of prayer
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a(1)
: an address (such as a petition) to God or a god in word or thought
said a prayer for the success of the voyage
(2)
: a set order of words used in praying
b
: an earnest request or wish
2
: the act or practice of praying to God or a god
kneeling in prayer
3
: a religious service consisting chiefly of prayers
—often used in plural
4
: something prayed for
5
: a slight chance
haven't got a prayer
prayer
noun (2)
pray·er
| \ ˈprā-ər
, ˈprer \
, ˈprer \
Definition of prayer (Entry 2 of 2)
: one that prays : supplicant
Learn More About prayer
From the Editors at Merriam-Webster
The Back and Forth of 'Litany'
The Back and Forth of 'Litany'
You probably learned it in church.
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Cite this Entry
“Prayer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prayer. Accessed 15 Aug. 2022.
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More Definitions for prayer
prayer
noun
\ ˈprer
\
\
Kids Definition of prayer
1
: words spoken to God
a prayer for peace
2
: the act of praying to God
We knelt in prayer.
3
: a strong hope or wish
It's our prayer that you will return safely.
4
: a set form of words used in praying
5
: a religious service that is mostly prayers
evening prayer
prayer
noun
\ ˈprer
\
\
Legal Definition of prayer
: the part of a pleading (as a complaint) that specifies the relief sought
also
: a request for relief or some other action by the court
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Time Traveler for prayer
The first known use of prayer was in the 14th century
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