Meaning & Definition of word "Litany"
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.