n. (pl. -ies) 1 a a series of petitions for use in church services or processions, usu. recited by the clergy and responded to in a recurring formula by the people. b (the Litany) that contained in the Book of Common Prayer. 2 a tedious recital (a litany of woes).
[ ME f. OF letanie f. eccl.L litania f. Gk litaneia prayer f. lite supplication ]