to speak to God or another spiritual being, especially to give thanks or ask for help
Every night before bed, the family knelt together to pray.
Pilgrims gathered at the ancient temple to pray for good fortune.
to hope very much that something will happen, often saying it even if you are not religious
I pray the rain stops before the outdoor wedding starts.
Let's pray the exam questions are easy tomorrow.
(formal, old-fashioned) to ask someone politely or earnestly to do something
The letter read, 'I pray you reconsider your decision.'
He bowed and said, 'I pray your forgiveness, my lord.'
