Hail Mary

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Hail Mar·y • n. (pl. Hail Ma·rys) 1. a prayer to the Virgin Mary used chiefly by Roman Catholics, beginning with part of Luke 1:28. Also called Ave Maria. ∎  a recitation of such a devotional phrase or prayer: muttering Hail Marys under her breath.2. [usu. as adj.] Football a desperation long pass to try to score late in the game, typically unsuccessful: they beat the 49ers on a Hail Mary pass in the final seconds. ∎  any attempt with a small chance of success: a Hail Mary plan.

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