Kyrie eleison
[ˈkiː.ri.e eˈlɛː.i.s̬on]
The English phrase "lord have mercy" is translated in Latin as Kyrie eleison.
This phrase is used as a prayer or a plea for God to show compassion and forgiveness.
What does it mean word for word?
Although used extensively in the Latin liturgy, the phrase Kyrie eleison is actually Greek.
Did you know?
- The word Kyrie is in the vocative case, which is a specific grammatical form used when you are addressing someone directly by name or title.
- In some musical compositions, the word eleison is stretched over many notes, a technique called melisma, making the single word sound like a long, flowing melody.
- The use of this Greek phrase in Latin settings reflects an ancient custom of keeping certain 'sacred' words in their original language to maintain a sense of antiquity.
Examples in context
- Clamamus, Kyrie eleison.We cry out, Lord have mercy.
Example conversation
Julia and Marcus are praying together in a church.
- JuliaKyrie eleison.Lord have mercy.
- MarcusAmen.Amen.
- JuliaPax vobiscum, Marce.Peace be with you, Marcus.
- MarcusEt cum spiritu tuo, Iulia.And with your spirit, Julia.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Kyrie eleison, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Kyrie, Kyrie eleison, eleison, CC BY-SA 4.0.
