[ prɛ: ]
■ noun
1》 a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God or another deity.
↘( ~s ) a religious service at which people gather to pray together.
2》 an earnest hope or wish.
Phrases
not have a ~ informal have no chance.
Origin
ME: from OFr. preiere , based on L. precarius 'obtained by entreaty', from prex , prec- '~'.