Prayer: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about speaking to a deity, often as part of a religious practice.

• She offers a prayer every night before going to bed.
• The community gathered for a prayer service.

Often used in religious or earnest contexts where one is humbly or desperately asking for help or favor, implying a degree of urgency or neediness.

• In his moment of need, he fell to his knees in supplication.
• Her eyes were filled with supplication, silently begging for mercy.

Typically used in formal or ceremonial contexts to call upon a deity or spirit for assistance.

• The ceremony began with an invocation for peace and prosperity.
• He recited an invocation to summon the spirits.

Used when requesting something formally or officially, often in a legal, governmental, or public context. Can also refer to a formal request to a deity.

• The citizens signed a petition to save the local park.
• Her petition for re-admission was carefully reviewed by the committee.

Used when an individual or group is communicating with a deity or higher power through spoken or silent words.

• She spent a few moments in prayer before going to sleep.
• The congregation joined together for a communal prayer.

Refers to organized acts of worship, such as religious ceremonies or church services, but can also mean an act of helping others.

• They attended the Sunday morning service at their local church.
• Volunteering at the soup kitchen was a form of service to the community.

Emphasizes a deep commitment or dedication, often to a deity, spiritual practice, or religious duty. Can also be used in a secular context to show deep affection or loyalty.

• Her daily morning devotion includes reading the scriptures and meditating.
• He showed great devotion to his family and always put their needs first.

Denotes acts of reverence and adoration towards a deity, which can include rituals, prayers, and singing. It is more formal and collective than prayer.

• The entire village came together for the festival of worship.
• Their worship includes singing hymns and lighting candles.

Used in religious or spiritual settings, often when someone is talking to a higher power or deity.

• She said a prayer for her family's safety
• His daily routine includes morning prayers

Used in everyday situations when someone is asking for something in a polite or formal way.

• She made a request to leave work early
• Can I make a request for more information?

Commonly used in legal or formal contexts when someone is asking for a change in a decision or seeking help from those in power.

• The lawyer filed an appeal to overturn the verdict
• The charity made an appeal for donations to support the flood victims

Often used when someone is desperately asking for something, usually in a serious or emotional situation. Can also have a legal connotation where someone states their innocence or guilt.

• His plea for mercy was heartbreaking
• The defendant entered a plea of not guilty