noun

1. the act or practice of praying, as to God
2. an earnest request; entreaty; supplication
3. 1. a humble and sincere request, as to God
   2. an utterance, as to God, in praise, thanksgiving, confession, etc.
   3. any set formula for praying, as to God
4. in some religions, a devotional service consisting chiefly of prayers
5. any spiritual communion, as with God
6. something prayed for or requested
7. ☆ Slang a chance to succeed I don't have a prayer

Etymology: ME preiere < OFr < ML precaria < L precarius, obtained by begging < precari, to entreat: see pray

noun