Meaning & Definition of word "Litany"
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Litany
/ˈlɪtəni/
noun:
- 1. A repetitive or incantatory series.
- Example: The teacher recited a litany of complaints about the students' lack of effort.
- 2. A form of prayer consisting of a series of invocations and responses.
- Example: During the service, the congregation participated in a litany that called for peace and healing.
- 3. A lengthy recitation or enumeration.
- Example: His litany of excuses for being late grew increasingly elaborate.
Etymology
From Middle English 'litene', derived from Old French 'litanee', from Latin 'litaniae', from Greek 'litaneia' meaning 'supplication'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
litany of complaints:
A long list of grievances or issues.
litany of excuses:
A repeated series of justifications or reasons for fault.
Related Words
supplication:
The action of asking or begging for something earnestly or humbly.
petition:
A formal request addressed to an authority.
Slang Meanings of litany
Meaning: A repetitive complaint or argument.
Example Sentence: Stop with your litany about how hard your job is; we all have tough days.
Meaning: A long, tedious list of things.
Example Sentence: Her litany of chores seemed endless.