Orison Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🙏
Add to dictionary

orison

[ˈɔːrɪzən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

prayer, request

An orison is a prayer or supplication. It is often used in a literary or poetic context to describe a solemn request made to a divine being.

Synonyms

entreaty, prayer, supplication.

Examples of usage

  • She offered an orison for peace in the world.
  • His orison revealed his innermost desires.
  • In the quiet chapel, they whispered an orison together.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The term frequently appears in Shakespeare's plays, highlighting its poetic nature and depth.
  • Many poets of the past utilized 'orison' in their works, linking it to themes of yearning and hope.
  • Writers like John Milton incorporated 'orison' in their texts to convey the sacredness of prayer.

Cultural Significance

  • In many religions, orisons play a central role during rituals, emphasizing community and shared beliefs.
  • Orisons are often accompanied by specific gestures or movements, such as kneeling or bowing, to show respect.
  • Cultures worldwide have diverse traditions around orisons, reflecting their values, hopes, and desires for help.

Psychology

  • Making orisons can be a way for individuals to express their emotions and cope with stress.
  • Research suggests that private orisons can promote feelings of peace and connection to larger forces.
  • Psychologists study how communal orisons in groups can strengthen bonds between people.

Pop Culture

  • Orisons are often depicted in movies and literature as powerful moments of reflection and yearning.
  • Certain songs incorporate the idea of orisons, emphasizing hope and connection to something greater.
  • Modern interpretations sometimes view orisons as a form of meditation rather than strict religious practice.

Origin of 'orison'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Orison' comes from the Latin word 'oratio' meaning 'speech' or 'prayer.'
  • Its roots trace back to Old French, reflecting how prayers were a significant part of medieval life.
  • The term has been used in English since the 14th century to denote requests or supplications to a deity.

The word 'orison' comes from the Old French word 'orison', which means 'prayer', derived from the Latin word 'oratio', meaning 'speech' or 'prayer'. The Latin root is related to 'orare', which means 'to speak' or 'to pray'. The term has been used in English since the 14th century and is often found in religious texts and literature, emphasizing its association with solemn communication with the divine.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,177, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.