Pray

Pronunciation: /preɪ/

Definitions of pray

verb to address a deity or other object of worship with adoration, confession, supplication, or thanksgiving

Example Sentences

A1 I pray every night before going to bed.

A2 She prays for good health and happiness for her family.

B1 Many people pray for world peace during times of conflict.

B2 He prayed for guidance and strength to make the right decision.

C1 The monks in the monastery pray together in silence every morning.

C2 She prayed fervently for a miracle to save her dying friend.

Examples of pray in a Sentence

formal Before we begin the meeting, let us all pray for guidance and wisdom.

informal I always pray for good weather when I have outdoor plans.

slang I'm praying that I pass this exam without studying.

figurative She prayed for strength to get through the difficult times in her life.

Grammatical Forms of pray

• past tense: prayed
• plural: pray
• comparative: more prayerful
• superlative: most prayerful
• present tense: pray
• future tense: will pray
• perfect tense: have prayed
• continuous tense: is praying
• singular: prays
• positive degree: pray
• infinitive: to pray
• gerund: praying
• participle: praying

Origin and Evolution of pray

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'pray' originated from the Old French word 'preier' which came from the Latin word 'precari' meaning to ask earnestly, beg, or entreat.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'pray' has evolved to encompass not just asking earnestly or begging, but also to include the act of worship or communicating with a higher power.