pray
verb (used with object)
to offer devout petition, praise, thanks, etc., to (God or an object of worship).
was praying
-
past progressiveof pray.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“When he was praying for my needs, they would get answered. That was unusual for me.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 4, 2026
"I was praying, I was talking to God because I feel I have a personal relationship with him and when I cannot carry myself, he always carries me," Rodrigues said.
From Barron's ● Oct. 31, 2025
Even Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu—Kirk, a Christian, was a supporter of Israel—said he was praying.
From Slate ● Sep. 10, 2025
I was praying to have good grades, my hair should grow longer, and I would pray for the bus to come on time so I wouldn't miss something.
From BBC ● Aug. 6, 2025
Iphigenia was praying aloud: “Maiden and Queen, daughter of Zeus and Leto, you shall dwell where purity is, and we shall be happy.”
From "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton
