[prayer] n, often attrib [ME, fr. MF preiere, fr. ML precaria, fr. L, fem. of precarius obtained by entreaty, fr. prec-, prex] (14c) 1 a (1): an address (as a petition) to God or a god in word or thought "said a ~ 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 ~"
3: a religious service consisting chiefly of prayers--often used in pl.
4: something prayed for
5: a slight chance "haven't got a ~"
[2]pray.er n [ME prayere, fr. prayen to pray +
[2]-er] (14c): one that prays: suppliant