Spanish word

orar

Pronunciation

IPA/oˈɾaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbpray

Example

En la iglesia, vamos a orar juntos.

We are going to pray together at church.

Illustration for orar (pray)

More examples

Al terminar la comida, muchas personas oran para dar gracias.

At the end of the meal, many people pray to give thanks.

Core concept

Person with folded hands and closed eyes facing a cross.

Common phrases

  • orar para dar gracias

    pray to give thanks

  • orar en público

    pray in public

  • orar durante la misa

    pray during mass

Similar words

rezar: Prays aloud or silently to a sacred being, often using traditional words or formulas.
rogar: Pleads earnestly for help or a favor, expressing deep urgency or heartfelt begging.

Definition in Spanish

Pronunciar o pensar una súplica o un agradecimiento dirigido a lo sagrado, con intención religiosa o espiritual.

Word origin

From Latin orare 'to speak, beg', the verb develops into addressing the sacred with words of supplication or gratitude and connects to the noun oración.

Usage tips

  • Orar normally takes a to mark the addressee (orar a Dios) and por when praying on someone's behalf (orar por alguien).

Related words

Word lists with this word