How to Say “Ave Maria” in Latin

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Ave Maria
[ˈa.weː maˈriː.a]
Ave Maria is the Latin phrase for "Hail Mary," used in the traditional Catholic prayer addressed to the Virgin Mary.
The phrase serves two purposes: it is the title of the prayer and it functions as the opening salutation within the prayer itself.

What does it mean word for word?

The word Ave is a greeting meaning "hail" or "hail to you," and Maria is the vocative form of the name "Maria."

Did you know?

  • The word Ave was originally borrowed from Punic, a language spoken in ancient Carthage, where it meant 'live!'
  • The word Ave is an example of an 'imperative' form, meaning the prayer begins not just with a greeting but with a command for the person to remain well.

Examples in context

  • Ave Maria est oratio sacra.
    The Ave Maria is a sacred prayer.

Example conversation

Two people are preparing for a church service.

  1. Aurelia

    Quinte, visne orare mecum?
    Quintus, do you want to pray with me?
  2. Quintus

    Ita, Aurelia. Quid dicamus?
    Yes, Aurelia. What shall we say?
  3. Aurelia

    Dicamus Ave Maria pro pace.
    Let us say the Ave Maria for peace.
  4. Quintus

    Bene est. Incipiamus.
    That is good. Let us begin.

Sources

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Nancy Billie
Nancy BillieHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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