Dictionary

Hail Mary

noun

: a Roman Catholic prayer to the Virgin Mary

American football : a long forward pass thrown into or close to the end zone as playing time runs out

Full Definition of HAIL MARY

1
:  a Roman Catholic prayer to the Virgin Mary that consists of salutations and a plea for her intercession
2
:  a long forward pass in football thrown into or near the end zone in a last-ditch attempt to score as time runs out
ADVERTISEMENT

Origin of HAIL MARY

translation of Medieval Latin Ave, Maria, from the opening words
First Known Use: 15th century

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: hailproofPrevious Word in the Dictionary: hail insuranceAll Words Near: Hail Mary
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears