Pray"er (?), n.
One who prays; a supplicant.
© Webster 1913.
Prayer [OE. preiere, OF. preiere, F. priere, fr. L. precarius obtained by prayer, fr. precari to pray. See Pray, v. i.]
1.
The act of praying, or of asking a favor; earnest request or entreaty; hence, a petition or memorial addressed to a court or a legislative body.
"Their meek preyere."
Chaucer
2.
The act of addressing supplication to a divinity, especially to the true God; the offering of adoration, confession, supplication, and thanksgiving to the Supreme Being; as, public prayer; secret prayer.
As he is famed for mildness, peace, and prayer.
Shak.
3.
The form of words used in praying; a formula of supplication; an expressed petition; especially, a supplication addressed to God; as, a written or extemporaneous prayer; to repeat one's prayers.
He made those excellent prayers which were published immediately after his death.
Bp. Fell.
Prayer book, a book containing devotional prayers. -- Prayer meeting, a meeting or gathering for prayer to God.
Syn. -- Petition; orison; supplication; entreaty; suit.
© Webster 1913.