praying

v. to speak to a god to give thanks or ask for help.

v. the act of addressing a deity or spiritual entity for the purpose of worship, thanksgiving, or petition.

“The family was praying together in the church on Sunday morning.”

“While the congregation was praying for peace, the sunlight filtered through the stained glass, creating a quiet atmosphere of reflection.”

v. hoping very much that something good will happen.

v. expressing or feeling a fervent hope that a particular event will occur or a situation will improve.

“We are all praying that the weather stays dry for the outdoor wedding.”

“The rescue teams were praying for a break in the storm, knowing that every hour of delay made their mission more dangerous.”

n. the activity of saying prayers.

n. the performance of a prayer or the state of being engaged in spiritual communication.

“The sound of quiet praying could be heard from the back of the room.”

“The constant praying of the monks provided a rhythmic background to the daily life of the monastery.”

Formal